How to Identify and Mitigate Network Overload

With the progression of technology, we are more connected than ever, and with few signs of slowing down. In spite of technology’s highlight in keeping us connected during the COVID-19 pandemic, it came with the hitch of certain problems—especially for the networks that host our devices.   When multiple devices use the same network, overloading happens as all devices compete with one another to connect to the same network, resulting in a slew of problems from buffering to slow speeds. So, what can you do about it?

Problems Associated with Too Many Devices on WiFi

Most businesses offer WiFi to their employees, customers, and visitors, which can sometimes cause the WiFi to become jammed. Here are some of the most common problems associated with network overload.

Unknown Activity

Organizations must perform network assessments to determine exactly how much of the network is being used by company devices. We already established that too many users on a WiFi network slows the speed. So how do you ensure your network is used only by authorized devices?    If you don’t have a way of monitoring the amount of devices on your network, you might find your network taking on devices from a neighboring business, slowing down your network for your customers and employees.   As you audit your network activity, take note of activities and applications that are unknown, and consult with your MSP on possible measures to keep your network protected from unauthorized users.

Low Bandwidth

If you complete your WiFi activity audit and find that nothing is out of the ordinary, but you are still dealing with slow speeds, the problem may lie within your wired bandwidth. You might even check the last time you had an upgrade.    Businesses and their needs change, and your bandwidth may not be able to meet your needs the same today as it did last year, especially when it comes to bandwidth for streaming video and hosting video chats.

Network Interference

Sometimes, your WiFi speed issue may lie in something as simple as a neighboring WiFi hotspot that causes network interference. A network assessment should bring to light any potential issues.

Limiting the Number of Connections

One sure way to increase your WiFi speed is to limit the number of WiFi connections on your network. If all employees, clients, and guests have their personal devices connected to your WiFi, and fifteen people are merely checking Facebook, it can cause some serious lag. Limit the number of connections, or consider creating a company Bring Your Own Device policy.

Managed Network Support

When you have fully managed network support, you guarantee efficiency and employee productivity while also increasing customer satisfaction, and loyalty.   A managed WiFi provider will provide comprehensive services and will take all of your wireless network building, managing, troubleshooting, and updating needs into their expert hands. Managed services can:
  • Track your WiFi speed and ensure it is optimized while stepping in to prevent network overload before it happens.
  • Ensure your network is secure and monitor traffic to ensure your network is not hosting any unknown/unauthorized visitors or activity.
  • Handle access point management.
  • Offer comprehensive WiFi network management services.
For all of your managed network support needs, you can count on the experts at Cenetric—Kansas City’s trusted choice for managed IT services.  
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