Wi-Fi, also known as wifi, is a form of technology based on the IEEE 802.11 standards that uses radio waves to create local area networks (LANs). These devices use a wireless access point, commonly known as a hotspot, to connect to a wifi LAN (WLAN) that provides access to the internet. Hotspots have a range of about 20 meters indoors and a much greater range outdoors, typically by using multiple overlapping hotspots.
Internet access is an increasingly important requirement for most businesses today, so the method of obtaining that access is critically important since virtually everyone is in need of the internet. Many businesses are turning to wifi technology as their preferred form of networking for both their customers and employees. Wifi for business offers the following distinct advantages:
Wifi in the Office
Internal wifi provides workers in the office with benefits that improve their productivity and save money in the long run. Going wireless reduces the restrictions on an office’s layout since cables no longer dictate desk locations. It also eliminates the expense of IT services such as purchasing, installing and maintaining those cables. Internal wifi also means that office workers are no longer tethered to their desks, allowing them to work at other locations such as conference rooms. An additional benefit of office wifi is a greater collaboration since the ability to access data from any location allows employees to work in groups more easily.
Mobile Access
Mobile devices have become the standard way of accessing the internet for many employees because they allow them to access work even when they’re not in the office. Some service plans allow users to configure their mobile devices as wifi hotspots, which can be highly useful for implementing a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy. Wifi is especially helpful when allowing employees to continue working while traveling. A dedicated hot spot also provides traveling workers with greater security and allows them to avoid the wifi access fees common at many conferences and hotels.
Home Wi-Fi
High-speed wifi access can also benefit home-based workers. It allows work schedules to be more flexible since some workers can telecommute at least part of the time. This benefit helps retain top talent staff members who have come to expect telecommuting, which reduces the expense of working office space. Wifi technology also allows entrepreneurs to start and operate their business from home more easily.
Public Networks
Wifi can be especially useful for customers, many of whom can’t go without internet connectivity for an extended period. A wifi public network at a business’s location can aid in marketing by providing a splash page that showcases its products, services, and expertise. Including the company name in the wifi network’s name can also help build a business’s brand. Advertising free wifi access draws in foot traffic for customer-facing businesses such as retail outlets and restaurants. Once in a store, wifi also encourages customers to spend more time at a business, thereby increasing sales.
When searching for wifi and superior IT support for your Tucson business, look no further than Integrated Axis technology Group. We’re here to help you get started or improve the security you’ve already built. Give us a call at (520) 877-3033 to learn more.
