WiFi networks are not only being deployed as wireless hotspots in airports, libraries and retail stores but they are now important solutions in SME enterprises, allowing more flexible working, effective hotdesking solutions and higher productivity internally.

What is a WiFi network?

WiFi networks work in a similar way to mobile phones. You can make or receive calls without being connected to a phone socket. Using a WiFi network, laptop and PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) users can connect to an SME’s LAN or WAN quickly and easily without having to carry around cables or find a suitable socket to plug into.

This flexibly approach to networking makes the management of internal networks far more effective and efficient to improve productivity and communications.

Additionally services such as VoIP (Voice over IP) are becoming more popular, giving executives the mobility of a mobile phone while reducing telephony costs dramatically.

Benefits of WiFi networks in SMEs

There are significant benefits in installing WiFi networks:

• enhances productivity through more efficient use of time in office and the ability for multiple users to use laptops or PDAs in important meetings
• offers flexibility in working practices, particularly on larger sites, i.e. executives are not deskbound to access information
• improves communications; essential in all businesses but vital in growing companies
• reduces need for expensive overheads – no need to provide bespoke desks (could encourage hot-desking, particularly for Sales teams),
• scaleable - the network will grow with your business whether it’s in physical room space or simply through employing new staff – there is no need for additional cabling to add additional users

Why ChalkHill Systems?

While WiFi networks have grown in commercial and domestic markets it should always be understood that in a commercial environment the issues concerning its installation are significantly different and potentially more sensitive:

Security

Organisations have to protect against unwelcome ‘eyes’ and effective security measures have to be put into place to ensure wireless networks are robust. Many ‘domestic’ solutions simply do not have the capability required to protect your data and indeed any data you hold for or about third parties – including customers and competitors.

With many years in security management, ChalkHill Systems fully understand the issues that corporate users face and ensure that all wireless networks are properly protected against intruders and hackers.

Content Filtering

If managers wish, ChalkHill Systems can exclude certain sites from access. These may be adult sites or sites for downloading audio or video files which require high bandwidth – potentially slowing a network down for other users and compromising productivity.

Splash pages

On accessing the internet through a WiFi Hotspot ChalkHill Systems can ensure that users are redirected to an initial web-page which can be used to inform executives about important meetings or staff notices.

Discrete installation

Site surveys are important to help us identify the best location for access points that ensure adequate coverage at a site. ChalkHill Systems will where possible ensure discrete installation.

Why ChalkHill Systems?

ChalkHill Systems have deployed significant WiFi networks in many SMEs and other commercial sites. We offer you a totally professional service to ensure you maintain a competitive edge:

• Network qualified installers
• Professional grade network hardware with multiple security options to reassure senior management, owners and all other stakeholders
• On-going maintenance and support
• Maintenance of existing IT infrastructure
• FREE site surveys

If you want to benefit from the opportunities wireless network services can offer please call our principal engineers on 0845 430 9066 for an informal discussion on how ChalkHill Systems can set your company free!