A reliable network is important for most small businesses. Whether you run an office, shop, workshop, reception area or home-based business, your network helps keep computers, laptops, printers, card machines, phones and other devices connected.
This guide explains the common networking products a small business may need, what each item does, and what to check before buying.
1. Router
The router is one of the main parts of a business network. It connects your business to the internet and helps manage traffic between your devices and your internet connection.
Many businesses use the router supplied by their internet provider, but in some cases a better router may be useful for stronger performance, better Wi-Fi, improved management features or more reliable connectivity.
When looking at routers, consider:
- Internet connection type and compatibility
- Number of wired Ethernet ports
- Wi-Fi performance and coverage
- Security features
- Guest network options
- Whether you need VPN support
2. Network switch
A network switch gives you more wired network ports. This is useful if you have multiple devices that need a stable wired connection.
For example, a small office may use a switch to connect:
- Desktop PCs
- Network printers
- VoIP phones
- Network storage devices
- Wi-Fi access points
- Card payment terminals
For many small businesses, an unmanaged switch is enough. It usually works by plugging it in and connecting your network cables. Larger or more complex setups may benefit from a managed switch, but that is not always necessary for a basic office network.
3. Ethernet cables
Ethernet cables connect devices to your network using a wired connection. Wired connections are often more stable than Wi-Fi and can be useful for business devices that need reliable performance.
Common uses for Ethernet cables include:
- Connecting desktop PCs to the network
- Connecting printers and network storage
- Connecting routers to switches
- Connecting Wi-Fi access points
- Improving reliability for key devices
For most modern small business networks, Cat5e or Cat6 cables are commonly used. Cat6 is often a good choice if you are buying new cables for an office setup.
4. Wi-Fi access points
A Wi-Fi access point helps provide wireless coverage for laptops, phones, tablets and other devices. In smaller premises, the router’s built-in Wi-Fi may be enough. In larger offices, shops or buildings with thick walls, additional access points may be needed.
Access points can help improve:
- Wi-Fi coverage
- Signal strength
- Connection stability
- Guest Wi-Fi access
- Coverage across multiple rooms or floors
If staff or customers regularly complain about weak Wi-Fi, slow speeds or dropped connections, the Wi-Fi setup may need reviewing.
5. Wi-Fi extenders and mesh systems
Wi-Fi extenders and mesh systems are designed to improve wireless coverage. They can be useful in smaller business premises or home office environments where the main router does not cover every room properly.
However, they are not always the best solution for every business. For a more reliable setup, especially in offices, wired access points are often better than simple plug-in extenders.
- Wi-Fi extenders: Usually cheaper and simple, but performance can vary.
- Mesh systems: Better for wider coverage and easier roaming between rooms.
- Wired access points: Often the best long-term option where cabling is possible.
6. Network storage
Network storage, often called NAS, allows files to be stored centrally and accessed by authorised users on the network. It can be useful for small businesses that need shared storage, backups or a central location for files.
A network storage device may be useful for:
- Shared business files
- Local backups
- Document storage
- Photo, design or media storage
- Keeping important files in one central place
Network storage still needs to be backed up properly. Having files on a NAS is not the same as having a complete backup plan.
7. Powerline adapters
Powerline adapters use the electrical wiring in a building to extend a network connection from one room to another. They can be useful when running network cables is difficult.
They are often used for:
- Connecting a device in another room
- Improving connection reliability compared with weak Wi-Fi
- Home office setups
- Small buildings where cabling is not practical
Performance can vary depending on the electrical wiring, so they are not always guaranteed to work well in every building.
8. Network adapters
Some computers or laptops may need a network adapter if they do not have the connection you need.
Common examples include:
- USB to Ethernet adapters for laptops without Ethernet ports
- Wi-Fi adapters for desktop PCs
- Bluetooth adapters for accessories
- USB-C adapters for modern laptops
Before buying an adapter, check your device’s available ports and the type of network connection you need.
9. Basic network security products and features
Small businesses should also think about network security. This does not always mean buying complicated equipment, but the network should be set up sensibly.
Useful security considerations include:
- Strong Wi-Fi passwords
- Separate guest Wi-Fi where possible
- Keeping router firmware updated
- Using reliable antivirus on computers
- Restricting access to shared files
- Using secure remote access rather than unsafe port forwarding
A basic, well-configured network is often better than a complicated setup that is not maintained properly.
10. What does a small office usually need?
A typical small office network may include:
- A router or business broadband router
- A network switch for wired devices
- Ethernet cables for desktops and key equipment
- Wi-Fi access point or mesh system for wireless coverage
- Network printer or shared printer setup
- Network storage or backup storage where needed
- Adapters for laptops or devices without Ethernet ports
The exact products depend on the size of your premises, number of devices, internet connection, layout and how important reliability is to the business.
11. Wired or wireless for business devices?
For important business devices, wired is usually more reliable where practical. Wi-Fi is convenient, but wired connections are often better for devices that stay in one place.
- Use wired where possible for: desktop PCs, printers, network storage and access points.
- Use Wi-Fi for: laptops, phones, tablets, visitors and flexible working areas.
A good business network often uses both wired and wireless connections together.
12. What should you check before buying networking products?
Before buying networking products, check:
- How many devices need connecting
- How many wired ports are required
- Whether Wi-Fi coverage is good enough
- Whether you need guest Wi-Fi
- Whether cables can be run safely and neatly
- Whether devices need Ethernet, USB-C or Wi-Fi adapters
- Whether shared storage or backups are needed
- Whether your internet router is suitable for the job
Need help choosing networking products?
If you are unsure what networking products your small business needs, IT Done Right can help point you in the right direction. It helps to know how many devices you have, what type of building you are in, where the router is located, and what problems you are trying to solve.
You can browse networking products in the IT Done Right Shop here: Shop networking products .
You may also find our Business IT Supplies page useful for monitors, keyboards, mice, storage, cables and other everyday IT equipment.
If you need help with small business computers as well, see our IT Support Basildon service.
Need advice before ordering? Contact IT Done Right and we will be happy to help.