Setting up a small office or shop network the right way
The parts of a reliable small business network (router, switch, access points, cabling and backup power) and how to separate guests, staff and payment devices.
GuruFinder team· · 1 min read
A small office, shop or venue network does not need to be complicated, but it does need to be planned. Getting it right once saves years of dropouts and late-night restarts.
The building blocks
- Router or firewall: connects you to the internet and protects the network.
- Switch: gives wired connections to computers, printers, POS stations and access points.
- Wireless access points: ceiling or wall units that provide Wi-Fi throughout the space.
- Structured cabling: network cable runs from each location back to a central point, neatly labelled.
- UPS (battery backup): keeps the core equipment running through short power cuts.
Separate the network into zones
Most business routers can create separate networks (often called VLANs) on the same equipment. A common set-up has three:
- Staff: computers, printers and file storage.
- Payments and POS: card terminals and point-of-sale, kept apart from everything else.
- Guests: internet only, with nothing else reachable. See guest Wi-Fi for cafes and bars.
Plan for growth and failure
- Run spare cables while walls are open.
- Consider a backup internet connection if sales depend on being online.
- Write down passwords and settings, and store them in a password manager.
Find a network technician, or read keeping POS systems running.
Need a hand with this?
Find a rated technician near you, or post the job and let them bid.