Wi-Fi and networking buying guide

CCS Tech & Home buying advice

Choose your network equipment around the building, connected devices and the problem you want to solve.

Identify the bottleneck

Is the connection slow everywhere or only in certain rooms? Compare a wired connection with Wi-Fi where possible. New Wi-Fi equipment will not automatically increase the speed of your internet service.

Choose the equipment type

A router connects networks; a switch adds wired network connections; an access point provides Wi-Fi from a network connection. Mesh systems use multiple units to extend coverage. Check how a new system will work with your existing internet provider's equipment.

Plan coverage

Mark the rooms, floors and outdoor areas you need to cover. Thick walls and the position of equipment affect coverage. Where practical, a wired link between access points or mesh units can reduce dependence on wireless links.

Check ports and power

Count wired devices and leave room for expansion. If equipment uses Power over Ethernet (PoE), confirm the required standard, power per port and total switch power budget. Do not assume passive PoE and standards-based PoE are interchangeable.

Your buying checklist

Gather your router model, internet package speed, a simple floor plan, device count and any available cable routes. Check whether a proposed system requires an app, account or paid features.


Ask CCS about compatibility — send model numbers and a description of what you want to achieve. Product availability will be confirmed separately.

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