Welcome to the First Column IT Tech Blog

HomeBlog
Tip of the Week: Improve Your Network Through Router Placement

Tip of the Week: Improve Your Network Through Router Placement

September 15, 2025

A solid Wi-Fi connection is a necessity, not a luxury. To provide your team with the best possible wireless connection, you need to choose the right router and place it correctly. It's best for a business to buy its own modem and router, rather than renting a combined device from an internet provider. This gives you full control over your network and allows you to select hardware that fits your specific needs.

Choosing the Right Router

When you're shopping for a router, look for key features. Security is important, so make sure it has robust WPA3 encryption and a strong firewall. The router should support multiple bands—dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz) at a minimum, and ideally tri-band (with 6.0 GHz) to connect various devices. You'll want at least three LAN ports and one WAN port. 

A built-in VPN option adds an extra layer of protection, and to ensure you get the fastest speeds, choose a router that supports a modern protocol like 802.11ac or newer standards like Wi-Fi 6 or 6E. Finally, make sure it has Gigabit ports for the fastest possible wired connections.

Contact us at (571) 470-5594 if you need any help!

Optimizing Router Placement

Once you have the right router, its placement is crucial for a strong signal. To get the most speed and coverage, install the router in a central location in your office so the signal can reach everyone.

It's also important to keep it raised off the floor to prevent physical obstructions from weakening the signal. Try to keep it away from other electronics that can cause interference. Before you install all your other office technology, map out the signal strength and consider using wireless extenders to cover any dead zones.

If you need help finding the best networking technology, feel free to contact us at (571) 470-5594.

‍

Previous Post
May 29, 2024
Here are Five Ways Faster Internet Helps Your Business
Internet speeds have been increasing over the past few years as more people do more online. This enhancement in speed brings several benefits to businesses of all types. Let’s look at five benefits businesses can take advantage of with higher Internet speeds. 
May 27, 2024
Voice over IP: Changing Communications One Office at a Time
Communications are incredibly important for businesses, but it’s easy to let the other parts of your technology infrastructure take priority. One of the greatest ways businesses can prioritize communications and cut costs is by implementing a VoIP ( Voice over Internet Protocol) system. With the right setup, your business can revolutionize its telephony system and streamline communications across your organization.
May 24, 2024
If You Want to Insure Your Business, You’re Going to Need MFA
Certain businesses have taken a much closer interest in cybersecurity… those businesses being business insurance providers. Many will now only provide coverage if your business maintains certain cybersecurity standards. One key tool they want to see is multi-factor authentication, or MFA.

Have a project in mind?

Start with our free consultation. We will provide a detailed proposal and firm quote based on your specific IT support needs. All at a predictable monthly cost per seat.
Free Consultation - Sign Up Here