Your coworking center will never take off without a proper Wi-Fi network. As soon as the project is launched, way before the actual opening of the center, you should have a look at what internet suppliers propose to professionals. Some of the following listed elements will need in-depth discussion with internet suppliers (you need to get the most suitable offer possible; one that will answer your needs, your center’s reputation depends on it!).
Do not underestimate your power needs
In a coworking center, the connection speed has to be exceptional. Optic fiber is seriously recommended to provide your coworkers with the best connection. Broadband internet access is an option you need to discuss with your supplier.
The case of simultaneous connections
Before even signing your internet contract you need to inquire how many connections the network can support. Ask for an internet offer that corresponds best to your needs, aka potentially dozens of simultaneous connections. Even if your center is relatively small (5 to 10 members), you should provide for three connections per coworker: for a laptop, a smartphone and a tablet or printer, etc. Lastly, you should check out the data throughput and be sure it will stay high and stable.
Testing your network’s potential reach
A coworking center can extend to hundreds of square meters and several floors. You need to test the Wi-Fi network in each corner of the building, especially in the meeting rooms and the open spaces. Do not neglect common parts (kitchen, lounge). You can evaluate the Wi-Fi’s reach and capacity with the Netgear Wi-Fi Analytics application (you can find it on Google Play).
When you are visiting places to establish the coworking center, try to spot the potential obstacles to a perfect network: metal walls, reinforced concrete walls, armored glass, etc. The more open your space is, the better your Wi-Fi network is.
If you have to increase your network’s reach, you can choose a popular technology: the broadband over power line (BPL). It permits the establishment of a computer network on your building’s electric network to pass on data. To connect your coworkers’ computers you just need to plug in specific sockets equipped with Wi-Fi gears.
Key fact: securing your Wi-Fi network
You will not manage to escape this. First – indispensable – step: changing the name and password of the network. Make sure it comes with an encryption key (WEP or WPA). We suggest you choose a WPA because it is more difficult to crack up.
You can also filter the devices allowed to connect to your network with the MAC addresses of each one of them. It is rather difficult to put in place, considering your members will have to give you the identification numbers of their devices prior to their first connection. However, you will have a perfect visibility on those who owns the authorizations to use your network.
What about ‘connected’ equipment?
A good Wi-Fi network offers way more possibilities than a traditional internet connection. Invest in equipment you can connect to the network (tablets, printers…). About printers: connecting a printer to the Wi-Fi network can sometimes be a little more complicated than you would imagine. You should write a tutorial for your coworkers. They will be able to print from a distance!
