Network installation steps & where to get help

When planning a network install, start by pinpointing your organization’s needs. Knowing what’s required helps set up a network that makes daily tasks easier, especially if you’re installing software across many computers. A bit of planning now can save a lot of trouble later.

In this article, we answer the following:

• Why is proper network installation essential?
• What are key considerations before starting a network installation?
• 7 mistakes to avoid during network installation steps
• What challenges can arise during network installation?
• Where can you get help with network installation?
• Meter’s NaaS solution for complete support

Why is proper network installation essential?

A well-designed network greatly affects performance, security, and growth. Proper network installation is like laying a strong foundation for a house—if it’s not done right, everything built on top can have serious problems. So, taking the time to get it right from the start can go a long way.

Minimize network downtime

One of the primary reasons to focus on proper network installation is to reduce downtime. An improperly installed network can act like a weak link, prone to breaking under pressure.

For example, networks that aren't configured to handle peak loads can crash when traffic spikes or when too many users attempt to access the system simultaneously. These outages disrupt business activities, frustrate customers, and lead to financial losses.

The impact isn't limited to immediate operational delays; repeated downtime can tarnish the company’s reputation and result in lost opportunities.

Avoid security vulnerabilities

A network that's set up without considering potential vulnerabilities can be likened to leaving a door unlocked in a high-risk area. Sooner or later, someone is likely to take advantage of it.

Weaknesses in network security expose sensitive data to unauthorized access or cyberattacks, leading to severe financial consequences and potential reputational damage. Getting the installation right from the start allows for the implementation of strong security measures, reducing the risk of data breaches and other security incidents.

Ensure future scalability

A network that lacks the flexibility to grow with the organization can quickly become a bottleneck, hampering expansion efforts. As a business adds more devices, data, and applications, the network needs to accommodate these changes.

Without proper planning, an organization might face an expensive and disruptive overhaul of the network infrastructure sooner than anticipated. A flexible installation of network components, designed with future growth in mind, avoids frequent reconfigurations or costly replacements.

What are the key considerations before starting a network installation?

Proper planning is important when setting up a network. Addressing the following considerations will help you create a network that meets current demands and supports future growth.

Assess your business needs

Start by evaluating the size and scale of your organization and its specific requirements. Consider what types of devices and applications the network will need to support:

• A retail environment might require strong Wi-Fi capabilities for point-of-sale systems and guest access.
• A corporate office might need secure, high-speed connectivity to handle video conferencing, file sharing, and cloud applications.

Understanding these needs allows for a more tailored network design.

Plan for growth and scalability

Anticipate future changes. Your network should be capable of supporting expansion without extensive modifications. To achieve this:

• Opt for hardware and software that can easily scale with increased demands.
• Consider the potential growth in the number of devices, users, and applications.

Think of the network as a growing foundation—similar to constructing a house with room for future expansion. Planning ahead avoids costly redesigns and keeps the network adaptable to changing needs.

Budget for network installation

Developing a comprehensive budget is key to effective network setup. Include costs such as:

• Hardware and software: Invest in components that provide reliability and flexibility.
• Installation labor: Account for the technical expertise required for installation and configuration.
• Maintenance: Consider ongoing costs for updates, security patches, and potential future upgrades.

While upfront costs may seem high, quality investments often reduce expenses over time by minimizing repairs and replacements.

Considering these factors will help you build a network that not only meets your current needs but also adapts to future requirements and technological advancements.

Mistakes to avoid during network installation

Setting up a network can be a complex task, and it’s easy to overlook important details. Avoiding common mistakes during installation can save time, money, and frustration later on. Here are some missteps to steer clear of to give yourself the best chance at a successful setup.

1. Skipping the planning stage

Jumping into a network installation without a plan is like going on a road trip without a map—you might end up lost. Take the time to figure out your network needs and layout before diving in. Proper planning will save you from making costly changes later on and help everything run as it should. A little effort spent on planning now can save you a lot of trouble in the future.

2. Ignoring bandwidth requirements

Underestimating your network’s bandwidth needs is a common mistake that can lead to frustrating slowdowns. Imagine trying to run a marathon while only training for a 5K! It’s important to assess both your current usage and what you expect in the future.

Consider how many devices will be connected and the type of activities they’ll be doing—like video calls or heavy downloads. Planning for enough bandwidth will help keep things efficient and your team happy.

3. Using poor quality cables

Buying cheap cables may seem like a good idea at first, but it can come back to haunt you later. Think of it like buying a discount umbrella—it might work for a while, but it won’t hold up in a storm!

Low-quality cables can cause slow connections and dropouts, leading to frustration for everyone. Investing in good-quality cables will provide a reliable connection and keep your network running strong. In the long run, spending a little extra on quality pays off big time.

4. Not documenting the setup

Forgetting to document your network installation can lead to a world of confusion later on. It’s like trying to remember the details of a recipe you’ve never written down. Note the:

• Configurations
• Equipment used
• Any changes made along the way

Good documentation helps with troubleshooting and assists anyone who may step in to manage the network later. Spending a little time on documentation now can save you from a lot of guesswork in the future.

5. Overlooking security measures

Skipping security during installation is an invitation for trouble. It's vital to put strong security measures in place right from the start. Consider using firewalls to keep unwanted visitors out and encryption to protect sensitive data.

Taking these steps helps safeguard your network against threats and keeps your information safe. After all, a secure network lets you focus on your work without worrying about sneaky intruders.

6. Failing to test the network

Have you ever baked a cake and forgotten to check if it’s cooked? Skipping network testing is a lot like that. You forget to test your network, and you might end up with a mess later.

Always perform a thorough network before it goes live to catch any issues early. Take the time to run checks on speed, connections, and security. Finding problems now means you can fix them before they cause trouble for your team.

7. Not planning for future growth

Forgetting to plan for future growth can make your network feel outdated in no time. You must design your network with expansion in mind. Consider how your business might change—will you add more employees or new technology? Planning for these changes now means you won't have to scramble later. A bit of foresight can save you from needing a big overhaul later.

What challenges can arise during network installation?

Network installation can come with its share of bumps along the way. Being aware of common challenges can help make the process easier.

Physical limitations and interference

Physical barriers like walls and large metal objects can disrupt Wi-Fi signals, leading to weak connections. If cabling isn’t set up properly, it might limit where you can place devices, creating dead zones. Conducting a site survey during planning helps spot these obstacles. Adjusting access point placements or adding signal boosters can keep your network strong.

Compatibility issues

Mixing different hardware and software can create problems. Using products from various brands or pairing old systems with new tech may lead to performance hiccups. Double-check that all your network components work well together. Looking at both your current setup and future plans can help avoid these compatibility challenges.

Security risks

The installation phase is important for setting up security measures. If security configurations are skipped, your network might be open to cyber threats. The risk increases if new devices aren’t configured correctly. It’s wise to include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption from the start to keep your data safe.

Insufficient training for staff

A common challenge is not providing enough training for staff who will use the new network. If employees are unsure how to use the system or troubleshoot minor issues, it can lead to frustration and lower productivity. Offering proper training sessions and resources can help staff feel more confident and capable.

Lack of proper documentation

Not documenting the installation process can create confusion later on. Without clear records, troubleshooting becomes difficult, and future upgrades may be more complex. Keeping detailed documentation of the network setup and configurations makes it easier to manage and expand the network down the line.

Address these challenges early on to benefit from a more reliable and secure network. With careful planning, thorough testing, and good security practices, you can build a strong network that meets your needs.

Where can you get help with network installation?

Network installation involves many steps that require expertise and care. Hiring professionals can make things much easier and help avoid mistakes. Plus, they can get your network running at its best right from the start.

When you bring in network installation experts, you tap into their knowledge and experience. They guide you through every stage, from planning and design to configuration and testing. These pros can spot potential problems early on, helping you build a network that meets today’s needs and can grow in the future.

During configuration, they make sure each device is set up properly and ready to perform. When it’s time to test, these experts use advanced tools to check the network's functionality. They search for weak spots that could cause problems.

After installation, they provide support and maintenance, addressing any issues to keep your network in good shape. With their help, you can feel confident your network will operate reliably and securely.

Next steps: Meter’s NaaS solution for complete support

Meter’s Network as a Service (NaaS) solution is designed to handle everything from network design and network install to ongoing management and support. Our expert technicians manage every detail, allowing your IT team to focus on strategic projects that drive business growth.

With Meter, you can leave the complexities of network installation and maintenance to us. We provide a network that is secure, scalable, and tailored to your specific business requirements, so you can concentrate on what matters most—growing your business.

For those who prefer to leave the technical details to the experts, Meter’s NaaS solution offers complete support, making network deployment and maintenance hassle-free, allowing you to focus on innovation and propel your business forward.

Here's what Meter offers:

• Comprehensive network design and installation: Our team begins with a thorough assessment of your business needs, followed by a network design that aligns with your goals. We handle everything from cabling to hardware configuration.
• Continuous monitoring and maintenance: We keep a close watch on your network, identifying and resolving potential issues before they impact your operations, keeping everything running without interruptions.
• Flexible scalability: Whether you're expanding your current setup or opening a new location, our solutions are designed to adapt to your growth plans, eliminating the need for costly network overhauls.
• Advanced security protocols: We incorporate high-level DNS security measures to protect against cyber threats, keeping your data safe and your business compliant with industry standards.
• Reduced IT burden: With Meter managing your network, your internal IT team can devote more time to higher-value projects, such as enhancing business processes and rolling out new technologies.
• Clear and predictable pricing: Our NaaS solution comes with straightforward pricing, providing you with full transparency and no hidden fees.

Contact Meter with any questions you may have regarding network installation and support or how you can get started using our NaaS solution today.