Maintain overheads with the right office internet setup

Office internet has become essential for every business looking to access a world of information and communicate more effectively with its customers.

But with office internet set-up a complex and technical process, how do you know where to begin?

Prepare your computers

Whether you're buying new computers or using existing ones for your office internet set-up, you'll need software designed and licensed for commercial use, as well as reliable and accessible IT support.

If investing in new computers, buying well-known and established brands can provide an extra level of support, says Linden Jackson of Agile IT Solutions.

Essential hardware

To establish your office internet system, your business will need a modem and, most likely, a router. The modem connects to the internet and the router connects the modem to your computers.

Many internet service providers (ISPs) include modems and routers with their internet set-up plans, or offer them at discounted rates when you sign on for a contract. 

Securing your office internet connection

A router is the gateway between your computers and the wide world of the internet. It is where you can set up a firewall to filter data that passes back and forth on your office internet system, block dangerous sites and prevent viruses.

"It's a bit like having a bridge over a river and a guard at both ends, saying, 'Okay, who are you and why do you want to cross the bridge?'" Linden explains.

Another benefit of a router is that all the computers in your business will now be part of a Local Area Network (LAN), meaning that information can be easily shared between staff.            

Choose your access

There are a few different types of office internet connections offered, with varying speeds and costs:

• Cable: A faster, more expensive connection that requires installation of a cable access point.   
• ADSL: A slower, cheaper connection that can be accessed through your existing telephone line.
• Wireless: An expensive but flexible connection that can be accessed anywhere through Wi-Fi or satellite signal.

Choosing an office internet plan

The two main factors in choosing an office internet internet plan will be the speed of the connection (known as 'bandwidth') and the amount of downloads and uploads you are allowed. 

When deciding on a download limit, keep in mind that business computers will be used predominantly for email and internet browsing, rather than heavy downloading. 

"For a small office with five to 10 computers, you could probably get away with five to 10 gigabytes per month," Linden suggests.

Additional support

The technology for home and office internet plans is the same, but the quality of service is the important difference. 

"It can be devastating for businesses to be down for two or three days," says Linden. "Providers who supply a business-grade service have a higher level of support."

Call in the support troops

Setting up an office internet connection might seem daunting to a novice, but one call to a networking and installation specialist will make your entry into the World Wide Web a breeze.