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Repeater / Extender vs. Mesh Network

October 8, 2017/in Networking /by The Tech Zen

The Problem Whether it’s in your home, a friend or relative’s home, or your office, you may notice Wi-Fi connectivity isn’t always the same in every part of the structure. Some routers just aren’t built to provide Wi-Fi throughout all buildings. Fixing the Problem The good news is, there are ways to fix that […]

Refresher on Preparing Your Technology for a Hurricane

September 20, 2017/in Computer Security /by The Tech Zen

Now that we are in the peak of hurricane season, it’s good to refresh yourself on how to prepare your technology for hurricanes. Whether you are a business owner or not, you still have important documents, data, and pictures you will want to keep safe. Data Backup Always ensure you have a backup for […]

Repeater / Extender vs. Mesh Network

October 8, 2017/in Networking /by The Tech Zen

Refresher on Preparing Your Technology for a Hurricane

September 20, 2017/in Computer Security /by The Tech Zen

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Repeater / Extender vs. Mesh Network

October 8, 2017/in Networking /by The Tech Zen

The Problem

Whether it’s in your home, a friend or relative’s home, or your office, you may notice Wi-Fi connectivity isn’t always the same in every part of the structure. Some routers just aren’t built to provide Wi-Fi throughout all buildings.

Fixing the Problem

The good news is, there are ways to fix that problem! There are a couple of things to consider before deciding whether to fix the problem with a repeater/extender or a mesh network. The cost of the product to fix it, the size of the building, and the quality of your current router are all things to take into consideration when making your decision.

Repeater/Extender vs. Mesh Network

Repeaters and extenders duplicate the signal from your router. It repeats it from that point on and extends the capability of your router. A mesh network is more like separate routers you can put in each room that will provide Wi-Fi all over your house or building. Repeaters and Mesh Networks are similar but each one has distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Why Mesh Network?

Investing in a mesh network system could be a bold move for some. But the fact that it can solve most, if not all, your Wi-Fi problems should be a no brainer. It’s like having little Wi-Fi stations all over your house or office and provides you with a strong wireless connection.

Eero & Google Mesh Networks

Last year, Eero released a mesh network and of course, big brands like Google released their own versions. You may think a mesh network is only for big offices or big homes, but it is highly recommended for all structures, even smaller ones. Not only does the Wi-Fi connectivity improve but systems like Eero and Google Wi-Fi include smartphone apps that allow you to manage and understand your system better.

Here are some of the main points of each of the two systems:

Google Wi-Fi

Great App & easy installation
Great solo router
Only dual band
No VPN pass-through
Needs lots of space from wall

Eero

The systems are small and aesthetically
pleasing
Great App & easy installation
Most expensive mesh system
Only 2 Ethernet ports

Whichever system you decide to use, a mesh network is definitely the way of the future in Wi-Fi quality.

The Tech Zen performs IT services for residential and small business clients through-out South Florida. If you are interested in a mesh network solution, contact us for a free phone consultation.

Refresher on Preparing Your Technology for a Hurricane

September 20, 2017/in Computer Security /by The Tech Zen

Data Backup

Always ensure you have a backup for your data and that copies are made frequently. Anything can happen to a home or office building at any time. A good idea is to back your data up offsite or in network files. The storage hardware for network files is usually kept in a physically secured place that is monitored 24/7. Having your backup offsite means you will have your data even when you are away on vacation. If you cannot backup your data offsite, another alternative is using a portable device. If you go this route, make sure your portable device has security features such as encryption. When you’re making copies of your files by saving it to different places, you’re also increasing the risk of a data security breach.

Secure the Physical Devices

The biggest threat to your devices will come from potential water damage from the storm. Storm surge and flooding are a big concern. Therefore, you want to make sure your electronics are taken off the floor and moved to a higher area. You’ll also want to move them away from windows and other areas that can be vulnerable to rain, wind, and debris. Make sure your electronics are unplugged from power sources and a good tip is to wrap them in plastic bags to further protect them from water. Even if your electronics are connected to a UPS, in the event of a hurricane, you should power them off and disconnect them. Consult with your IT professional about shutting down your servers and what to do about network switches, firewalls, routers, etc. This is an important step for businesses, as they may have a more complex set up.

If You Must Evacuate

Make sure you have a “to-go” bag ready in case you must evacuate at the last minute or very quickly. You’ll want to make sure you remember to pack the chargers for your phones, laptop, tablets, etc. Also consider having backup chargers.

Before and After the Storm for Business Owners

Before the storm arrives, make sure that you protect important documents such as legal contracts, insurance documents, and tax returns by placing them in water proof storage or plastic, sealed bags. Even if you have cloud storage, it’s a good idea to have a printed list of important phone numbers for people or organizations that are crucial to your business operations. After the storm, you will want to consult with your IT professional to get everything back up and running.

Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

Repeater / Extender vs. Mesh Network

Refresher on Preparing Your Technology for a Hurricane

Repeater / Extender vs. Mesh Network

Refresher on Preparing Your Technology for a Hurricane

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

Repeater / Extender vs. Mesh Network

Refresher on Preparing Your Technology for a Hurricane

Data Backup

Secure the Physical Devices

If You Must Evacuate

Before and After the Storm for Business Owners

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