Network Hardware: To Lease or To Buy?
Internet Service Providers advertise their devices as being convenient and easy to set up and activate and there is no refuting that claim. Leasing a modem from your ISP is a convenient way to provide your business with internet access. However, leasing network hardware is not the only option.
By Sean Pride, Service Technician
When considering equipment for your business, the database server, point of sale machines, and workstations are likely at the forefront. Peripherals such as receipt printers, cash drawers, and pin-pads are also deserving of attention. But network equipment like a modem, router, and wireless access point tend to get left by the wayside. Typically this is because Internet Service Providers offer a jack of all trades device that acts like a modem, router and wireless access point all-in-one. This is an acceptable solution for most small business customers, but is it the best choice for your business? You might just find that this jack of all trades is really a master of none.
Internet Service Providers advertise their devices as being convenient and easy to set up and activate and there is no refuting that claim. Leasing a modem from your ISP is a convenient way to provide your business with internet access. What is important to keep in mind, however, is the procedure for setting up and activating a modem is the same, regardless of how the device was procured. In fact, all Internet Service Providers will provide an “Approved Equipment List”, which contains makes and models of all compatible modems on the market. All you have to do is ask for it. Once you’ve obtained this list, it’s as simple as finding one that fits your price range. When it comes time to activate it, your ISP will assist you the same as they would if you were leasing the device from them.
Since the aforementioned device provided by your ISP performs the duties of a modem, router, and wireless access point, you’ll need to consider what devices will carry out the remaining duties. If your business has more than one computer, you’ll likely need something to route packets. If your customers or employees need Wi-Fi access, you’ll need a wireless access point. Thankfully you can purchase devices that are specifically designed to carry out these tasks, affording you the best possible network performance for your business. Not to mention owning your own router and wireless access point opens up a new world of possibilities that would never be accessible using leased equipment. Even features that many consider to be commonplace such as deep packet inspection, guest networks and Wake on LAN are not typically available with leased equipment from your ISP.
Using your own network equipment isn’t for everyone and there are considerations to be made before purchasing your own network equipment. However, if you’re changing Internet Service Providers, expanding your business, or just interested in saving a few bucks, then talk to your New West Customer Advocate today about your network hardware options.
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Sean Pride is a member of New West Technologies’ Service team. Leveraging seven years of customer and technical support experience, Sean has the customer service skills to explain complex issues in easy to understand terms, as well as the technical knowledge to implement and support a variety of IT solutions. He currently resides in California where he enjoys camping, custom PC building, and Dungeons & Dragons.
