Time really flies, doesn't it? It feels like it was only yesterday that your company had its wireless network deployed. Only it wasn't yesterday, it was four years ago, and the network your business relies heavily on is probably in dire need of a upgrade.
To which your response may be, "But it's still working just fine, why bother spending all that money on an upgrade?" The reality is more and more companies are finding their businesses increasing hampered by poor or outdated wireless networks that are unable to handle the demands placed on them by growing needs and technological developments. Just because your network is working doesn't mean you don't need to audit it to ensure it's ready to cope in the modern business sector. We've listed our key reasons to audit your wireless network sooner rather than later.
Critical Criteria Driving Network Change (and Why Your Network Needs to Be Ready)
1. Increasing Security Threats
Gone are the days when cybercriminals were mainly hoodie-clad hackers trying to prove their tech genius in their spare time. The modern cybercriminal is organised, with a well-equipped arsenal of tools at their disposal and a serious intent to commit crime. Whole syndicates exist with the sole intention of stealing data and making a profit from cybercrime, and it's not only big companies at risk. Small businesses are also in jeopardy (probably even more so), as many of the tools used by cybercriminals don't distinguish between businesses during an attack. You're viewed as just another firewall to be breached by these automated threats.
Another insidious ploy by cybercriminals is taking control of an unprotected network and subsequently using it to commit cybercrime, making your business an unknowing party to aiding and abetting. Not good. Imagine locking up on a Friday night, then showing up on Monday morning completely unaware that over the weekend your network was used to commit cybercrime...until the police show up and start asking questions. An unprotected network is a vulnerable one, and will be breached. It's just a matter of time.
2. The Internet of Things (IoT)
A huge buzzword that everyone seems to be talking about, the Internet of Things (IoT) has been a long time coming, and as it becomes increasing prevalent, wireless networks will need to rise to the growing demands placed on them. From wearables to appliances, mobile phones to tablets and laptops, there are a host of different devices that need access to your network. Riding the IoT wave all the way to the bank (and improved productivity) starts with ensuring you've got a network that's futureproof and ready to facilitate growing volumes of users and devices.
3. Performance Pressures
So your network performs well enough right now. Can you guarantee it'll hold it's own as your business's needs and demands evolve and grow? What happens when your company decides to install a high definition video and audio conferencing suite? Will your network provide enough bandwidth to enjoy seamless communication, or will you find yourself trying to make video calls but getting a distorted and pixelated experience? As technology advances and more users connect to your network, you need to ensure it's ready to handle the rigors of these new situations with ease.
So What Should You Do?
Simply, audit your network. Take a long, hard look at the three criteria above, and how well your network meets each one. Approach a network professional qualified to evaluate your wireless network and walk you through any potential areas where network upgrades or improvements can be made. Your network is a valuable asset in today's business world, and deserves to be a high priority. It's up to you to invest in the best possible wireless network. You won't regret it.
