Slow internet? Unreliable Wi-Fi? These aren’t just minor annoyances; they are cracks in your nonprofit’s digital foundation. All the cloud services and online tools in the world are useless without a stable, secure network. Let’s demystify the key components.
Meet the Team: Modem, Router, and Switch
Think of your network like a delivery system.
- The Modem is the front door. It connects your building to the internet service provider’s main line coming from the street.
- The Router is the mailroom clerk. It takes the internet connection from the modem and “routes” it to all the different devices in your office, usually via Wi-Fi. It’s the brain of your local network.
- A Switch (which many small offices don’t need) is like an extension cord for wired connections, allowing you to plug in more devices than your router has ports for.
Two Steps to a Better Network
1. Get a Modern Router: The free router from your internet provider is often old and underpowered. Investing $100-$200 in a modern Wi-Fi router from a reputable brand can dramatically improve speed and reliability. A new router will also have up-to-date security features to better protect your data.
2. Create a Guest Network: Most modern routers allow you to create a separate Wi-Fi network for guests. Do it! This keeps visitors and their devices completely separate from your main office network where your sensitive donor and financial data live. It’s a simple, powerful security measure.
A stable network is an invisible asset. You only notice it when it’s broken. Investing a little in a solid foundation pays dividends in productivity and reduced stress every single day.
Maxsys International
Your network is the backbone of your operations. Ensuring it’s healthy and secure is one of the most impactful tech investments you can make.
#Networking #TechTips #Cybersecurity #ITSupport #NonprofitTech
