Did you know that an average lifespan of a piece of network equipment is between 5 and 7 years? And no, this doesn’t mean that it will completely malfunction after a few years of use.
Although it may seem like it serves its purpose, a piece of networking equipment older than 5-years is likely not operating at its fullest potential. What is more – chances are that it will not be able to support some of the most recent technologies you wish and need to implement for the sake of your business development.
Unfortunately, many business professionals neglect to address this issue until it becomes a bit more evident. Don’t fix it, if it ain’t broke is the mantra they live and work by. However, what they are unaware of is just how much this dated network equipment is dragging them down.
What happens when you delay the upgrade?
Today’s entrepreneurs know just how dependant their businesses are on a high-performing WiFi network and how difficult it is to meet the high bandwidth demands caused by a constant increase in the use of mobile devices.
Namely, older network components are commonly unable to provide adequate support to new wireless, Voice Over IP (VoIP), and other technologies. At some point, it will become impossible for your business to stay afloat and to keep up with the clients’/customers’ growing demands.
Look at it this way – if you are struggling now, how difficult will it be in a (few) year’s time?
What you gain by investing in new pieces of network equipment
Increased productivity
A better and more stable network means you and your employees will complete the work easier and with less disruption. An upgrade will deliver more streamlined communication and faster file sharing since people will be able to utilize more advanced tools for such activities. As a result, you are looking at an increase in productivity, not just because you will work faster and smarter, but your employees will be working with greater satisfaction and motivation.
Introduction of new technologies
In today’s business world, VoIP system is a must, as it comes with greater flexibility, scalability, and overall savings on traditional phone services. With Voice Over IP, your phone traffic travels via the internet and you eliminate monthly payments you now have to make to your local carrier.
But VoIP-based phone solutions require quality bandwidth. Thus, once you check business VoIP phone service reviews and decide on the one that best meets your business needs, you need to determine whether your current network equipment will support the new technology you plan to implement. Our advice is to look for network switches that deliver Power over Ethernet (PoE) which supports both VoIP and wireless technologies. The best part is – ethernet technology is fairly affordable, which means that a network refresh won’t dig a huge hole in your budget.
Furthermore, it is important to note that there is an increasing demand for gigabit ethernet which now comes as a standard feature of most PCs and servers, as well as some latest laptop models. By opting for gigabit ethernet, you ease your support staff’s workflow because it is likely that the most recent managed gigabit switches come with a diagnostics feature. It allows you to clearly indicate which ports are active and in-use, as well as quickly and accurately determine the exact location of ethernet cable problems, and more.
Long-term scalability
If you focus on continual upgrade of your network equipment, you provide yourself with room for improvement. The fact is – new, innovative solutions and services hit the market on a regular basis and those who wish to maintain at the top of the industry need to stay up-to-date with new relevant technologies that are designed to facilitate their business activities.
Long-term savings
An up-to-date network will be more efficient and easier to manage, which means that it will deliver higher levels of efficiency. As a result, you are looking at great savings in the cost and time it takes to complete certain everyday tasks. Give yourself a chance to better use your resources and shift their focus on more important tasks, such as the advancement of your business in terms of growth and client satisfaction.
Energy-savings
Manufacturers of network equipment are now, more than ever, paying a great deal of attention to the amount of energy their products spend. By purchasing some of the most recent models, you are actually lowering your overall energy consumption. On a smaller scale, this will surely help you better manage your business finances, while on a larger scale – you are contributing to a much greater, ecological revolution.
Bottom line
Don’t wait to squeeze the very last drop of juice from your network equipment. By upgrading your assortment of devices, you are making a valuable investment in the future of your business. If you are unsure whether the time has come to implement a few new network features into your office, you can consult with professionals and determine whether your current infrastructure supports wireless, VoIP, virtualization, and other technologies necessary for optimal business operations.
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