How Much Does It Cost To Install WiFi in A Business?
As the saying goes, businesses without the internet can go out of business. And, all it takes to bring a business on the internet is a WiFi connection and a dream. Then comes a thought, how much does it cost to install WiFi in a business?
Getting a WiFi connection installed in a business by professionals can cost you around $1500 to $2000. This cost may be as high as $6000 sometimes. It depends on your business size and how you want to set up the network.
However, the hardware costs, the complexity of the wiring setup, and labor costs can increase the overall installation cost. Let’s break down all these costs of installing WiFi in a business.
How Much Does It Cost to Install WiFi in a Business?
Be it small or big – every business requires a reliable business network. Thereby, the employees can communicate with each other internally as well as with external clients. The best service provider can ensure a reliable business network.
Basically, installing WiFi in a business is not different than a residential setup. The cost is nearly the same. Small and medium businesses sometimes use the same networking hardware as residential setups.
Only big businesses need a different networking setup, so the cost is high. However, the computer network installation comprises the installation of hardware, wiring, and labor costs.
Moreover, building a business network requires a number of equipment, such as routers, switches, servers, and endpoint devices. Setup of all this equipment comes at a fee of cost.
In total, you may need somewhere between $1000 and $6000 to build an office network. There is no straight answer to exactly how much it costs to install a business network.
Each business is different, and so are its distinctive needs. We’ll try to give you an idea of the estimated cost of hardware, network components, installments, labor costs, etc.
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Cost Breakdown of Elements Related to Installing WiFi in a Business
Building a computer network involves switches, routers, wireless access points, and endpoints. Apart from this, many cost factors of installing a WiFi network in a business exist.
1. Router
A router is essential to connect computer networks in one or multiple locations. It connects devices to the internet as well as to each other. Basically, it acts as a transmitter of information.
Many business-grade routers on the market feature anti-virus, anti-spam, and built-in firewall systems. Although they are best to make your business future-proof for years, they are expensive. They can cost as high as $350.
However, it is not better to invest in those expensive models. You can get affordable business-grade routers for between $100 and $200. They are enough to offer improved security, solid VPN support, and application prioritization of your business.
2. Switch
A business comprises plenty of end devices, like desktops, laptops, printers, servers, scanners, etc. You need network switches to connect all these devices to each other and to the internet.
There are two types of switches used in a business, such as; managed switches and unmanaged switches. The unmanaged switch is best for offices that don’t have enough IT support.
It allows employees to plug and play with 5-26 accessible ports. Conversely, the managed switch is better for larger organizations. When it comes to cost, the comparison is pretty simple.
The price of unmanaged switches varies depending on how many ports you need. A 16-port unmanaged switch costs you between $50 and $60 per device. And a 24-port unmanaged switch price ranges from $70 to around $100.
You can expect to spend $1500 to $2800 per port with managed switches. The price varies depending on features like security, access control, etc. You may also choose a smart switch for your small business.
3. Firewall
A firewall is a must to keep your business protected against malicious attacks. Big or small, no business can survive cyberattacks without defense. Small businesses are their easy target, as the statistics show.
So, it is essential to defend your business network. There are two types of firewalls: hardware firewalls and software firewalls. A business should invest in both to protect hardware and software from unauthorized access.
Different IT firms offer firewall packages with features like a built-in WiFi access point, advanced security subscription, etc. An entry-level hardware firewall for businesses with nearly 25 users can cost $2000.
With more users, the price can be high. The minimum price of a hardware firewall can be as low as $400. Moreover, a software firewall can cost you $150-$300 per device.
4. Servers
A business requires to perform processes like web hosting, file sharing, database storage, etc. An ordinary desktop computer is not enough to perform all these complicated processes.
Hence, a business server needs a server with several hard drives and power supplies to keep the business running. You can either have a dedicated server or a cloud server. A dedicated server is only used and managed by the organization.
A cloud server, contrarily, is managed by the cloud hosting provider. Depending on the bandwidth, size of CPU, memory, and disk space your business need, you can opt for a server.
You can expect to spend anywhere between $1000 and $3000 for a server. On average, it costs $1260 for most businesses. Moreover, you can get RAM or server memory at $200 and a hard disk drive at $65.
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5. Network Cable Installation Costs
Some professionals can charge you a minimum of $1000 for an integrated network cable installation. It comprises running the cable as individually as possible, which means routing the cable through the walls.
This process involves 1000-feet CAT-5 cable if you have existing network components. Typically, a business would require up to 2000 feet of CAT-6 cable with eight connections. It would cost you around $3800.
However, the cost of network installation with fiber optic cable can be as high as $6000. Mostly large businesses and also some small businesses can require a fiber optic cable installation.
6. WiFi Installation Cost
After you are done with all the networking, it’s time to get an internet connection. An internet connection setup will cost you from $75 to $150. Sometimes, the internet service provider won’t charge this setup cost.
Then, you need a WiFi installation that will cost you around $240. The process involves 150 feet of CAT-5 cable that runs from a hardwired internet connection to the wireless access point.
7. Labor Costs
Installing a hardwired network can cost $50 to $60 per hour. It can take 30-50 hours to install 2000 feet of cable. Moreover, maintaining a business network can cost you $5000, based on your location.
Wrapping Up!
Installing WiFi in a business may seem as easy as ABC. In reality, it is not. A number of devices, hardware, and cabling are involved in this process. Thus, it is essential to have a clear understanding of networking.
Thankfully, you know how much does it cost to install WiFi in a business. You can now look for a reliable service provider who can ensure exciting deals at a good price.
