What does it mean and what do I need?
In today's connected homes, internet access is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. Just a few years ago, a household might have had one or two computers online. Now, with a multitude of devices vying for bandwidth, a robust and reliable network is crucial.
Grahams have seen a significant increase in the demand for reliable home networks as we've installed more and more entertainment and control solutions. The frequent need to reboot standard, low-cost routers and switches is simply not an acceptable solution for our clients who depend on their connected devices.
That's why we only use professional-grade network hardware. Think of your home's IT infrastructure as its digital foundation. Just like a physical foundation supports your house, a strong digital foundation is essential for the seamless operation of all your connected devices. While inexpensive, over-the-counter networking equipment might seem appealing, it often lacks the power and reliability required for today's automated homes.
Each system we install, whether for home automation, security, or a home office, relies on a stable and high-performing network. We tailor each network to the specific needs of the home, utilising a range of professional-grade hardware, including routers, Ethernet switches, and wireless access points. These components, while varying in cost and performance, are chosen for their reliability and ability to handle the demands of a modern connected home.
To further ensure a trouble-free experience, we install network monitoring hardware. While we may still utilize your internet service provider's router as a gateway to the internet, all internal network hardware and Wi-Fi will be professional-grade. These solutions include 12 months of remote support and configuration.
What does this mean for the homeowner?
Simply put, it means a more stable and reliable network with the performance headroom to handle all your devices. Instead of resorting to the frustrating "unplug and reset" routine, we can, in most cases, remotely diagnose and pinpoint the cause of any network issue. This level of remote diagnostics and support is rarely available with consumer-grade equipment.
Simple; it means a more stable network that has the performance headroom to handle all the different devices more reliably. When something does not work, rather than the “usual, unplug it from the mains and reset”, in most cases we can remotely diagnose what has caused the problem and know why something has stopped working. Very few, if any consumer versions of this hardware have that ability.
While a single wireless access point might suffice for smaller homes, larger residences, especially those spread across multiple floors or located in densely populated areas, often require multiple access points for reliable Wi-Fi coverage. Seamless and transparent operation of these multiple access points requires a properly managed Wi-Fi network solution.
We utilise Ruckus smart Wi-Fi access points, a world-leading provider of smart wireless technology. Ruckus WLAN systems combine power and simplicity for large-scale indoor deployments. Most projects leverage Ruckus' built-in centralised management software, while larger projects may require a dedicated Wi-Fi control device. Key features of Ruckus systems
It means more stable and reliable Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home, with seamless handoff between access points, similar to how a cellular phone network operates.
All our Ruckus wireless solutions include remote monitoring and support as part of our comprehensive support package.
The image to the right showcases a Ruckus wireless access point. They features Wi-Fi 6 and offers discreet, neat installation. Its Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability eliminates the need for a local power supply, providing greater flexibility in placement.
This technology is advancing all the time and each year bringing more improvements. All our equipment is usually re-specified a couple of months before final procurement to make sure we are as up-to-date as possible
Calm, courteous, responsive and utterly reliable.
Gus G.
In summary, I cannot praise your company highly enough.
Nazir K.
"fantastic job, well done! .."
Russell J., Laughland Jones, www.laughlandjones.co.uk
It is testament that 'difficult clients' like us use Grahams Hi-Fi over and over again.
, Private Client, Switzerland