• Posted on Feb 10, 2022

The eNetwork Supply experts make it easy to gather everything you need for building a high-quality wireless network (both buy and sell platforms can help with this endeavor). Anyone can connect wireless devices safely to create their own private wireless network; it only takes a basic understanding of the primary elements. For example, all wireless networks include:

  • a modem,
  • an internet access point,
  • adapters,
  • antennas, and
  • other elements to ensure a strong signal.

Whether at home or the office, reliable network components are instrumental in building a secure, stable connection. Understanding how these components work will make the setup process more straightforward.

Basic Equipment for Building a Dependable Wireless Network

Which equipment is essential to creating a dependable wireless network at home or work? These nine items are a great start.

Modem

The modem is the heart of the network, connecting to the internet through a TV cable, digital subscriber line, or wireless technology. Some modems like wireless hotspots broadcast the internet signal, but many modems do not have these capabilities. In this case, a wireless router or alternative access point will be crucial for a successful setup.

Your modem choice will depend on the bandwidth capabilities you need. An Internet service provider will often provide a network-compatible modem, but many people use a third-party option in a wireless network when they have a specific model in mind.

Wireless Router or Access Point

The access point transmits a wireless internet signal, usually where a wireless router connects to the modem. Network builders can connect devices to the router’s broadcasted network to reach the internet and identify which network switches to hardwire to Ethernet devices. Other devices may feature antennas to extend the network range.

The best streaming quality and gaming speed require a wireless standard of 802.11ax. Another option is 802.11g (WLAN), and this has its own limitations. Access points work by bridging the wireless network to a wired connection, connecting many computers across the same local network.

To enjoy the best internet experience without changing network settings, it is best to look at more reliable wireless network equipment (both buy and sell channels rely on quality for consistent results).

Wireless Antenna

Many WiFi routers have a built-in antenna to boost the network range and signal strength. Older models may have an antenna on the router’s exterior. Access points may also feature antennas for extra coverage.

Home networks typically don’t require such a robust signal increase, though. A wireless antenna or extender device should be sufficient for getting the internet signal to the yard or garage. Network builders can also save money on a new router by adding third-party antennas to existing points.

Wireless Repeater

A wireless repeater works similarly to an antenna; it is an external relay hub for a wireless network. It works by duplicating the WLAN signal and extending it past its typical range. If your home or commercial location is large, a wireless repeater will repeat the network to each transmitter so that every area has a clear signal.

Routers should be in central locations for the best broadcasting signal, but it is easy to pick up the signal and boost it closer with repeaters. Interestingly, devices that fail to connect to the network might be more successful in connecting through the repeater.

Wireless Network Range Extender

A network range extender is similar to a repeater, connecting to the main router or additional access points and boosting the signal’s range. These devices come in many different styles and are only necessary if the signal is very weak. A range extender’s network performance will be slower than hardwiring and offers limited capabilities if it does not meet your internet usage demands.

Mesh Network Devices

Essential wireless network equipment (both buy and sell options) includes mesh networks. These popular devices eliminate the need for an extender, as a mesh network uses multiple routers to spread evenly throughout a property. One router acts as the base, while the others detect and broadcast stable internet.

Mesh network systems come in set packages for easy purchase and setup, but the alternative is a mesh-compatible wireless router. It is popular for the low latency performance, which allows users to listen to music, game, and surf the web at lightning speeds.

Wireless Network Adapter

Each wireless-compatible device you own contains a wireless network adapter or card. Smartphones, PCs, and other devices that were developed in the past decade typically feature a built-in wireless adapter; older devices need a third-party, external network adapter. Most network adapters are plug-and-play or card style and easy to set up (they install directly into USB ports and support various WiFi protocols).

While wireless network adapters are already tiny, the latest devices are even thinner and lighter. Notebook computers have a built-in adapter due to limited external ports. These do not require installation.

Wireless Print Server

A wireless print server is another handy element to print wirelessly. It connects multiple printers across the same network for:

  • Hands-free printing from anywhere within the network
  • No computer requirements for printing
  • Easy settings reconfigurations

Wireless printer servers connect to printers via WiFi or an internet cable. All compatible computers and devices must have the correct software to operate successfully across the wireless network. Equipment (both buy and sell platforms carry various options) could require an initial setup, while others allow plug-and-play.

WiFi-Compatible Device

A WiFi-compatible device is the final piece of equipment in a wireless setup. Laptops, tablets, smartphones, gaming consoles, and other devices connect wirelessly to the internet via these internal network adapters and allow network setting changes when connected.

Network builders need a computer to navigate to the right page using the network IP address to:

  • Choose WiFi devices to connect to the network
  • Monitor and set bandwidth limits
  • See active network connections

These nine elements above are easy to find and simple to connect for a reliable home or office network. If purchasing new items seems expensive at first glance, why not start with refurbished network hardware from reputable wireless equipment providers like us?

Wireless Network Solutions From eNetwork Supply

As leading wireless solutions providers, eNetwork Supply sources telecom equipment and surplus network hardware from data centers and other facilities. We buy network equipment and resell it at affordable prices. Why not explore our reputable Broadband solutions providers in Skokie, IL?

Call eNetwork Supply at 312-283-5983 today for high-quality wireless network equipment (both buy and sell options), telecom solutions, and more.