Tip of the Week: Consider Using Your Own Router

Your Internet connection is arguably one of the most important parts of your information systems, but you might find yourself limited by the hardware provided by your Internet service provider (ISP). This could come in the form of a modem-router combination provided by your ISP, which prompts the question of whether or not you really need to use what they provide.

The truth is that you don’t have to. You can use your own hardware for your router needs, but only if it meets the specific requirements of the ISP’s Internet service. While it may make for a more convenient time when receiving support from your ISP, if you can achieve a similar result with your own hardware, you have little reason not to do so. We’ll walk you through what you can expect when you forego your ISP’s hardware in favor of your organization’s own router.

Before we get started, be absolutely sure to discuss this with your ISP before investing too much time and effort into replacing the router they have provided for you--just to make sure that you can do it without a hitch.

First, it’s important to note that it’s likely you’re renting the hardware that you use from your ISP. There is the monthly service fee, as well as the charge for any equipment that you use from them. If you are using your own router for your Internet connection, you might be able to eliminate these costs, but you may be given some other charges by your ISP, so be sure to ask them about that beforehand. Additionally, you have the freedom to set up and configure the network to your business’s liking, but only if you are comfortable doing this yourself. If not, reach out to a managed service provider like SCW.

Second, you want to make sure that the router that you choose to replace your ISP’s hardware is up-to-date. This helps you ensure that security won’t become a concern, as it could bring about charges from your ISP if it’s not. You should also keep your router’s firmware up to date so as to keep functionality working properly.

Finally, you’ll be able to take full advantage of all of the features that your router has to offer, including setting up a guest network and having more control over how your network functions. Of course, you should only configure the controls on your router if you are sure about what you’re doing, or if you have a service provider on-hand to walk you through the process.

This presents yet another challenge in the form of managing your hardware. Since you are providing the hardware, it’s your responsibility to take care of it. For the business that doesn’t want to pay their ISP the often-ridiculous rental fees, or simply wants to set up a more robust Wi-Fi network, buying your own networking hardware will be beneficial. To learn more about how to take full advantage of your business’s technology, reach out to us at (509) 534-1530.