In today’s fast-paced business world, one term stands out when we talk about technology and efficiency: cloud computing. It’s not just a trendy phrase; it’s a real game-changer, with the power to completely change how businesses work and compete. From saving money to making collaboration easier, these virtual solutions have become essential for everyday tasks.

But what is cloud computing exactly? How does it work, and why is it so important for businesses? Let’s explore the various cloud computing options available. We will also provide useful tips for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to make the most of their technology resources.

The ABCs of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing enables you to tap into a variety of internet-based services, including storage solutions, servers, databases, and much more. This innovation allows for the utilization of advanced capabilities without the hassle of direct management or ownership.

Essentially, it provides on-demand access to computing resources, eliminating the need for costly hardware investments and maintenance. Cloud computing is available in three primary models: Public, Private, and Hybrid.

Each model offers unique advantages tailored to meet specific business requirements. Let’s delve into the key characteristics of these cloud computing types:

Public Cloud Computing

The public cloud model offers shared computing resources to various organizations through the internet. Amazon Web Services (AWS) stands out as a leading provider, catering to individuals, businesses, and governmental entities. This model allows companies to “lease” virtual servers and storage, among other services, with a pay-per-use structure. Startups, for instance, can effortlessly host websites, manage data, and launch applications without the need for personal server infrastructure.

Private Cloud Computing

In contrast, private cloud computing delivers services and infrastructure over a privately maintained network, dedicated solely to one organization. A typical example could be a financial institution that operates its own cloud within data centers, prioritizing stringent security and control over critical financial information. This arrangement supports the execution of proprietary applications and adherence to regulatory standards while limiting access to approved staff only.

Hybrid Cloud Computing

Hybrid cloud computing merges the benefits of both public and private clouds, facilitating smooth data and application interoperability between them. This model is particularly favored by global enterprises aiming to refine their IT frameworks.

By integrating public cloud services from providers like Microsoft Azure or AWS with a private cloud setup, companies can enjoy both scalability and enhanced security. This strategy allows for the public cloud’s use in handling customer-oriented applications and the private cloud for safeguarding internal data, thereby ensuring operational flexibility and regulatory compliance.

By understanding these cloud computing foundations, businesses can make informed decisions on adopting the most suitable cloud model to drive their digital transformation efforts forward.

Benefits of Cloud Computing for Businesses

Implementing cloud computing isn’t just a matter of jumping on the latest tech trend; it’s about enhancing the way a business functions. Here are several reasons why cloud computing is not only beneficial but often critical to success:

Cost Efficiency

For many businesses, managing their IT environment, including servers, software, and other infrastructure, can be expensive. Cloud computing, on the other hand, operates on a subscription or pay-as-you-go model, dramatically reducing initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs. This cost-effective approach allows businesses to reallocate resources to areas of growth, innovation, and customer engagement.

Scalability and Flexibility

Businesses can scale their cloud resources, both up and down, with no planning or service provider engagement. This level of flexibility is unprecedented, particularly for businesses regularly experiencing fluctuating demand. Cloud technology allows for the rapid launch of new services with minimal investment, enabling businesses to stay lean and respond quickly to market changes.

Enhanced Security

The cloud’s centralized approach to data storage means higher levels of security and enhanced disaster recovery. Leading cloud service providers invest significantly in the protection of their infrastructure, which includes advanced security measures, regular security audits, and the implementation of the latest security protocols. The result is more reliable and robust data security than many small businesses could afford on their own.

Improved Collaboration

Cloud computing fosters collaboration by allowing employees to sync up and work on documents and shared apps simultaneously. This capability, coupled with the ability to access data from any approved device, promotes a more collaborative and productive work environment regardless of location, which is particularly beneficial in a post-pandemic work setup. 

Cloud Computing in Action

Real-world cases can often paint a clearer picture of the potential impact of technology. Here are a few instances of businesses leveraging cloud computing to achieve significant growth and efficiency.

Cost Savings for Start-Ups

Cloud computing has changed the way startups operate by offering significant cost savings. Traditionally, startups had to invest substantial capital in purchasing server hardware, acquiring software licenses, and hiring IT support to set up and maintain their infrastructure. However, with the advent of cloud solutions, startups can now access computing resources, storage, and software on a pay-as-you-go basis, drastically reducing upfront costs.

By leveraging cloud services at a fraction of the cost, startups can allocate more of their limited resources toward their core business functions, such as product development, marketing, and customer acquisition. This streamlined approach allows startups to achieve faster growth and scalability, as they can focus on innovating and delivering value to their customers without being burdened by the heavy overhead costs associated with traditional IT infrastructure.

Moreover, cloud computing enables startups to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and customer demands. They can easily scale their resources up or down based on their needs, without the need for significant upfront investments or long-term commitments. This agility and flexibility empower startups to seize opportunities, pivot when necessary, and stay ahead of the competition in dynamic business environments.

As a result of these cost savings and operational efficiencies, many startups have been able to disrupt traditional industries with innovative cloud-based solutions. By leveraging the scalability, reliability, and accessibility of cloud computing, startups can level the playing field and compete with larger, more established companies on a global scale.

Global Expansion for Spikes in Demand

In today’s interconnected world, boutique consumer goods companies often face challenges in meeting spikes in global demand for their products. Traditionally, they would need to invest in additional infrastructure and resources to handle sudden surges in website traffic, orders, and customer inquiries. However, this approach is not only costly but also time-consuming and complex to implement.

Cloud computing offers a scalable solution for handling spikes in global demand without the need for significant upfront investments or infrastructure changes. By leveraging scalable cloud resources, such as virtual servers, storage, and content delivery networks (CDNs), boutique consumer goods companies can quickly ramp up their hosting and computing power to ensure that their website and services remain online and responsive during peak periods.

For example, during holiday seasons or promotional events, a boutique consumer goods company can seamlessly scale its cloud resources to accommodate increased website traffic, process orders efficiently, and deliver a seamless shopping experience to customers worldwide. This agility and scalability enable companies to capitalize on opportunities for increased sales and customer satisfaction, without the risk of downtime or performance issues.

By harnessing the power of cloud computing, boutique consumer goods companies can unlock new opportunities for global expansion and growth. They can reach customers in new markets, expand their product offerings, and enhance their brand presence without being constrained by traditional infrastructure limitations. Ultimately, cloud computing enables these companies to thrive in today’s fast-paced, digital marketplace by providing the flexibility, scalability, and reliability needed to succeed on a global scale. 

Future Trends in Cloud Computing

The world of cloud computing is always moving forward, bringing new opportunities for businesses. Here are some easy-to-understand updates on what’s next in cloud computing:

Edge Computing: Speeding Things Up Close to Home

Imagine your business operations getting faster and more efficient because your data doesn’t have to travel far. That’s what edge computing does—it processes data closer to where it’s being collected (like at your store, office, or on devices your business uses). This is great for businesses with teams working remotely or using lots of connected devices (the Internet of Things, or IoT), as it can make apps run smoother and save on internet costs.

Edge computing works hand-in-hand with cloud computing. While the cloud does the heavy lifting (storing vast amounts of data and handling big computations), edge computing takes care of immediate, local tasks. This duo can lead to better performance and happier customers.

Multi-Cloud: Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

Using multiple cloud services from different providers can be smart. It lets you pick and choose the best features from each, can be more reliable, and helps avoid getting stuck with just one vendor. Think of it as diversifying your investments but for your tech needs.

However, juggling different cloud services can get tricky, especially when trying to make them work seamlessly together. It’s a bit more to manage but can be worth it for the flexibility and security.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Smart Clouds Ahead

AI and ML in the cloud are about to take off. These technologies can automate routine tasks like analyzing data or making predictions, freeing you up to focus on bigger decisions. For example, they could help you understand customer behavior better or optimize your operations without you having to dig through the data yourself.

In short, the future of cloud computing is all about making your business faster, smarter, and more flexible. Whether it’s by bringing your data processing closer, using multiple clouds for the best of each, or leveraging AI to do some of the heavy thinking, there’s plenty to look forward to.

Start Your Cloud Journey with Everound

Cloud computing isn’t just about adopting new technology; it’s about adapting to the evolving needs and expectations of the business landscape. The cloud can empower businesses to achieve more with less—less cost, less maintenance, and less hassle. With the right approach and understanding, businesses can harness the full potential of cloud computing to drive growth and success.

Ready to take the leap into cloud computing? With Everound, your trusted managed IT services provider, we can guide you through the process. From consultation to implementation and ongoing support, our experts are here to ensure your cloud transition is smooth and successful. Reach out today to take the first step in improving your business operations with cloud computing services.

Nearly every business relies on technology for their daily operations. From communication and collaboration tools to data storage and security, technology plays a crucial role in the success of a company. With this dependence on technology comes the need for IT support.

When it comes to addressing your IT needs, businesses typically have two primary options: engaging managed IT services or establishing an in-house IT team. Another option is adopting a hybrid model that combines aspects of both. Each alternative comes with its set of advantages, making it crucial to discern the distinctions before arriving at a decision tailored to your business.

Let’s break down the different considerations so you can make an informed decision on what IT management model best suits your business needs.

Understanding Managed IT Services

Managed IT Services, commonly referred to as MSP, is a model where a third-party provider takes on the responsibility of your IT systems and infrastructure management. At Everound, this is how we work with most of our customers. It offers a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to technology support. A managed service provider assumes 24/7 monitoring, management, and problem resolution for businesses, allowing internal staff to focus on strategic, value-adding activities.

MSPs primarily manage IT infrastructure and end-user systems. They take a collaborative approach, offering support to an in-house IT team or operating as the comprehensive IT department.

Suite of Services

MSPs cover a breadth of IT services, such as network monitoring, security solutions, cloud management, data backup and recovery, and help desk services. They offer a diverse array of expertise, often hosting a team experienced in different IT areas.

This allows businesses to access a wide range of support and solutions without having to hire multiple specialists.

Key Benefits of an MSP

There are many benefits of working with a managed IT services provider. Some are related to cost and others are related to expertise. The key benefits to a business working with an MSP are:

• Cost Predictability: With a flat-rate monthly fee, MSPs can often provide more predictable spending than managing it in-house. This can be especially beneficial for small businesses on a tight budget.
• 24/7 Support: MSPs are there when you need them, ready to address any IT issue at any time. This means that businesses can have peace of mind knowing that their critical systems are being monitored and supported around the clock.
• Access to Expertise: By partnering with MSPs, you tap into a specialized pool of IT professionals. They have the knowledge and experience to handle a wide range of technical issues, from software updates to cybersecurity threats. This can save businesses time and money by avoiding the need to hire and train in-house IT staff.
• Scalability: Adjust your services as your business grows or IT needs change, without the HR headache. MSPs offer flexible services and pricing options, allowing businesses to scale up or down as needed without the costs and hassle of recruiting new employees.
• Proactive Maintenance: MSPs use advanced monitoring tools and processes to identify potential issues before they become major problems. This proactive approach helps prevent downtime, data loss, and other costly disruptions that can severely impact small businesses.
• Cost Savings: Outsourcing IT services to an MSP can be more cost-effective than managing an in-house IT team. Businesses can save on recruitment and training costs, as well as on expensive hardware and software purchases. With a fixed monthly fee for managed services, businesses also have predictable IT expenses, making budgeting easier.
• Strategic Focus: By offloading the day-to-day management of IT tasks to an MSP, businesses can free up valuable time and resources to focus on core business objectives. This allows for a more strategic approach to IT planning and decision-making, leading to better overall business outcomes.

The In-House IT Proposition

Having an in-house IT team means having a dedicated group of professionals solely focused on your business needs. They offer a level of intimacy with your business operations and functions, as they are on-site every day. Gathering an in-house IT team involves recruitment, where businesses can search for talent aligned with their specific needs. It also necessitates an ongoing commitment to professional development.

In-House Advantages

For some businesses, an in-house IT team makes sense. This is often the case with large, national corporations. Some advantages of an in-house IT team are:

• Culture Fit: Your in-house team can be deeply integrated into your business culture and objectives. This can lead to better alignment and understanding of the business goals, resulting in more effective solutions.
• Control: With an in-house team, you have complete control over the direction and management of your IT projects. You can make decisions quickly and implement changes as needed without needing to go through a third-party provider.
• Immediate Availability: With staff on-site, you have instant IT support ready to resolve issues. This may minimize downtime in some cases and keep business operations running smoothly.

Considerations When Choosing Your IT Model

Opting between an MSP model and an in-house IT is an important decision for a business owner. There are several things to consider including cost, scalability, expertise and skill sets, and flexibility and adaptability.

Cost and ROI Comparison

The decision between in-house IT and MSP hinges significantly on the delicate balance between costs and benefits. Conducting a thorough examination of the return on investment is imperative to grasp the economic trade-offs inherent in both models.

Opting for an in-house IT department involves substantial initial expenditures, encompassing the recruitment of specialized staff and the acquisition of equipment and software. Further ongoing costs may include training, maintenance, and upgrades. In contrast, MSPs typically levy a flat monthly fee for their services, presenting a potentially more cost-effective solution in the short term.

The advantages offered by MSPs extend beyond mere cost considerations. They provide intangible benefits like heightened security and minimal downtime, complemented by tangible cost savings. For instance, MSPs can furnish a team of highly skilled professionals at a fraction of the cost associated with hiring full-time employees. Moreover, their specialization in IT services affords them access to cutting-edge technology, translating into greater expertise and efficiency.

On the other side of the spectrum, in-house departments boast strengths in team familiarity with your operation, potentially yielding long-term financial gains through staff retention and accumulated knowledge capital.

In the crucial decision-making process between an MSP and an in-house IT department, the aspect of long-term ROI must not be overlooked. MSPs offer a degree of predictability in costs and service scalability, contributing to long-term planning security. In contrast, the long-term ROI with an in-house team may fluctuate more, contingent on organizational growth and the associated costs of staff development or replacement.

Scalability

Scalability is a pivotal factor in achieving business success, and your IT management model should accommodate it. Managed Service Providers excel in this regard by offering on-demand services that dynamically scale in alignment with your business’s evolving needs without requiring lead time.

Conversely, the process of expanding an in-house team or scaling up IT infrastructure can be both time-consuming and financially burdensome. By opting for an MSP, your business gains the invaluable advantage of promptly adding or removing services in response to growth or changes. This not only enhances adaptability but also fosters a more agile and responsive approach to IT management, aligning your technological resources with the dynamic needs of your business.

Expertise and Timeliness

MSPs swiftly implement solutions and updates via their specialized teams. They have the expertise and resources to stay up-to-date with the constantly evolving IT landscape, ensuring your business is always using the most efficient and effective tools. Additionally, MSPs provide timely support and troubleshooting for any technical issues, minimizing downtime and preventing potential disruptions to your operations.

In-house teams may be more attuned to the immediate needs of your business and can potentially offer more customized services. However, they may not have the same level of expertise or resources as an MSP, leading to longer response times and potential delays in implementing solutions.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Every business situation is unique, and the chosen IT management model must flex to accommodate this. Adapting to emerging technologies and sudden market shifts is equally an assessment of IT strategy as it is of the IT personnel.

Managed IT services providers have the edge in readiness. MSPs by design are attuned to IT developments and are quicker to adopt change and can help strategize and implement long-term technology plans with efficiency.

Internal IT departments need to actively manage their readiness for technological shifts. They must be aware of emerging technologies and trends, and have the resources to quickly implement them.

The Hybrid Approach

For many small businesses, a blend of managed and internal IT services may offer the best of both worlds. It requires a strategic and thoughtful fusion to ensure a cohesive and effective IT operation. By partnering with a managed service provider, businesses can tap into their expertise and resources while still maintaining some level of control over their IT operations. This hybrid approach allows for flexibility and agility in adopting new technologies while also keeping costs in check.

One major benefit of the hybrid approach is the ability to leverage the strengths of both internal and external IT teams. Internal IT departments can focus on day-to-day operations and managing more critical systems, while the managed service provider takes on tasks such as network security, data backup, and disaster recovery planning. This division of labor helps to reduce stress on internal teams while allowing them to prioritize projects that align with business goals.

Another advantage of this blended model is cost savings. Managed service providers typically offer customizable plans that allow businesses to only pay for the services they need, rather than investing in expensive equipment and software that may not be fully utilized. This also eliminates the need for constant upgrades and maintenance costs, further reducing IT expenses.

In addition to potential cost savings, hybrid IT also provides scalability. As businesses grow and their technology needs change, they have the flexibility to adjust their service plans accordingly. This means that companies can easily scale up or down as needed without being locked into long-term contracts or purchasing unnecessary hardware.

Moreover, a hybrid approach allows for greater agility when it comes to adopting new technologies. With an internal IT team focused on day-to-day operations, a managed service provider can stay up-to-date on emerging technologies and help businesses integrate them seamlessly into their existing systems.

Everound: Your Technology Partner

The debate between Managed IT Services and in-house IT is more than an operational consideration; it’s a strategic business decision. Whether prioritizing cost-effectiveness, customization, or scalability, your choice in an IT management model will shape the trajectory of your business’s technological capabilities.

Still unsure which model is the right fit? Assess your business needs and align them with the advantages offered by each model. The best decision is an informed one — ensuring that your IT investment yields the maximum ROI and propels your business to the next level.

As you navigate the labyrinth of IT management models, consider the path with Everound, a leading managed IT service provider. We offer services tailored to your specific needs, ensuring cost-effective, secure, and optimized IT systems. Our team can provide comprehensive managed IT services or integrate seamlessly into a hybrid model, enhancing your in-house expertise with our external insights.

Let’s start the conversation so we can learn how to best support your business.

Embracing AI at Work

The buzz about AI (Artificial Intelligence) is becoming increasingly hard to ignore. This innovative technology is reshaping the way businesses operate, irrespective of their size or industry. And yes, this includes small businesses too!

As a small business owner, you might wonder how AI can help your company. Perhaps you’re intrigued by the concept but unsure about how to implement it or what benefits it could bring. You are not alone. Let’s explore how AI tools for small businesses can help companies improve their operations.

Streamline Your Operations

AI is more than robots and algorithms; it’s about practical solutions that enhance your daily business operations. One area where AI can make a substantial impact is automation. By automating routine tasks, AI can free up time for you to focus on more strategic aspects of your business. Let’s learn how.

Automated Customer Service

Customers expect immediate service. AI can meet this expectation through automated customer service. Chatbots, powered by AI, provide instant responses and assistance.

They can answer common questions, guide users through processes, and even escalate complex issues to human agents. This not only improves customer satisfaction but also reduces the workload of your customer service team.

AI in Bookkeeping

Bookkeeping is a time-consuming task for small businesses. AI can automate this process, making it more accurate and efficient. With AI-powered software, you can automatically categorize expenses, reconcile accounts, and generate financial reports.

If you are using QuickBooks online, you are already using AI. QuickBooks learns from your spending patterns and categorizes transactions automatically, essentially reducing the time you spend on bookkeeping.

AI-Driven Recruitment

Hiring the right talent can be lengthy and resource intensive. Here again, AI comes to the rescue. AI-powered recruitment tools can automate various stages of the hiring process, from sourcing candidates to screening resumes and scheduling interviews.

These tools use machine learning to identify the best candidates based on the qualifications required for the job. This not only speeds up the hiring process but also ensures you find the right fit for your company.

Engage Customers and Enhance Experiences

Personalization in marketing is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Customers expect brands to understand their needs, preferences, and behaviors, and deliver personalized experiences that resonate with them.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help you meet these expectations in several ways:

Personalized Content Creation

AI can help you create content that resonates with your target audience. AI can analyze online browsing habits, purchase history, and social media interactions. Based on this information, AI can suggest content topics, formats, and styles that are likely to engage your specific audience.

For instance, if your AI system identifies that a particular customer segment responds well to visual content, you might focus on creating more infographics or videos for them. By tailoring your content to your audience’s preferences, you can drive higher engagement and conversion rates.

Automated A/B Testing

A/B testing is a technique for optimizing your marketing strategies. It can be time-consuming and complex, especially when you have to test multiple variables. AI can automate this process, making it faster and more efficient.

AI-powered A/B testing tools can test different versions of your website, email campaigns, or even ads. It can adjust variables based on real-time performance data, ensuring you always have the most effective version running. These tools can also provide detailed insights into what works and what doesn’t, helping you refine your strategies over time.

Predictive Analytics

Predictive analytics is another area where AI can enhance personalization. By analyzing historical data, AI can predict future customer behavior, allowing you to anticipate their needs and preferences.

For example, AI can identify patterns in a customer’s purchase history to predict what products they might be interested in next. You can then send them personalized product recommendations, increasing the likelihood of a purchase.

Deep Learning: Making Smarter Decisions Faster

The ability to make quick, informed decisions can be a game-changer. Here’s where deep learning, a subset of AI technology, comes into play. Deep learning can analyze data, extract valuable insights, and enhance decision-making processes.

Let’s look at how deep learning can help businesses make smarter decisions faster.

Real-Time Insights

One of the most significant advantages of deep learning is its ability to provide real-time insights. Traditional data analysis methods often involve lengthy processing times, making it challenging to act on data promptly. In contrast, deep learning algorithms can analyze and process data in real-time, allowing businesses to respond to changes and opportunities as they occur.

For instance, deep learning can monitor social media feeds in real-time to gauge customer sentiment. These insights can inform marketing and customer service initiatives, and drive business product development efforts. This enables businesses to remain agile and responsive to customer needs.

Automated Decision Making

Deep learning can also automate decision-making processes, increasing efficiency and reducing the scope for human error. By analyzing historical and real-time data, deep learning models can predict the outcomes of different decisions and suggest the optimal course of action.

Automated decision-making can be particularly beneficial in areas like inventory management, where timely and accurate decisions are crucial. For example, by predicting demand patterns, a deep learning model can automate decisions about when to restock certain items, ensuring optimal inventory levels at all times.

Risk Assessment

Risk assessment is another area where deep learning can add value. By identifying patterns and correlations in data, deep learning can predict potential risks and threats, from market fluctuations to cybersecurity risks.

For instance, in the financial sector, deep learning models can analyze market data to predict the risk associated with different investments, helping businesses make informed investment decisions. Similarly, in cybersecurity, deep learning can identify unusual patterns of network behavior that may indicate a potential threat, enabling proactive threat mitigation.

Real-World Examples of AI in Action

AI is no longer a concept confined to science fiction or large corporations with enormous budgets. Today, even small businesses are leveraging AI to streamline their operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth.

Here are some real-world examples of how AI is being put to use:

ChatGPT: AI-powered Customer Service

One of the most prominent examples of AI in action is the use of AI-powered chatbots like ChatGPT by small businesses. Developed by OpenAI, ChatGPT uses machine learning to understand and respond to user inquiries.

Small businesses are using ChatGPT to handle customer inquiries around the clock. These interactive chatbots can answer frequently asked questions, guide users through processes, and even handle basic troubleshooting.

By automating these tasks, ChatGPT not only enhances customer service efficiency but also frees up time for the human team to focus on more complex issues. Most importantly, it provides instant responses, meeting the modern customer’s expectation for immediacy.

Expedia: Personalized User Experience

Although not a small business, the way Expedia uses AI offers valuable lessons for businesses of all sizes. The travel booking website uses conversational AI to enhance the user experience.

When users visit Expedia, the AI system analyzes their search history, browsing behavior, and other data to deliver personalized recommendations. For example, if a user has been searching for flights to Paris, the AI might suggest popular hotels, activities, or travel packages in Paris. This level of personalization not only enhances the user experience but also increases the likelihood of conversions.

Small Retail Businesses: Personalized Marketing and Inventory Management

Many small retail businesses are harnessing the power of AI. They use AI for personalized marketing, predictive inventory management, and more.

For instance, by analyzing customer data, AI can help businesses understand their customers’ shopping habits and preferences. They can then target customers with personalized marketing messages, such as special offers on products they frequently buy or recommendations for similar products.

Integrating AI into your IT

Incorporating AI into your business IT infrastructure is a strategic move that can yield substantial benefits. It can streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and provide valuable insights to drive growth. However, it’s also a complex process that requires careful planning and execution.

An effective AI strategy involves selecting the right tools, defining clear goals and objectives, and ensuring seamless integration with your existing systems. It’s about more than just implementing new technology; it’s about transforming your business processes and culture to become more data-driven and proactive.

Before diving into the world of AI, let us help you sift through the AI tools available that can help you reach your business goals. As a leading managed IT services and cybersecurity company that specializes in delivering enterprise-level IT support to small and mid-sized businesses, we can help you navigate the myriad of AI tools available, selecting those that align with your business objectives and integrating them seamlessly into your operations.

Whether you’re looking to incorporate AI into your IT infrastructure or need assistance with other aspects of IT management, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how our services can empower your business.

WiFi is No Longer an Amenity

When you visit a business, chances are you look to see if they offer guest WiFi. After all, connectivity is no longer an amenity, but a necessity. Offering guest WiFi has become an expectation for many customers and clients. This is particularly true for businesses in the hospitality, retail, and service sectors. With the rise of remote work and the need for seamless online access, the need for dependable WiFi is greater than ever before.

Of course, offering guest WiFi comes with its own set of pros and cons. On one hand, it can help to attract and retain customers, increase foot traffic, and even prevent negative reviews. On the other hand, it can also be a drain on bandwidth, a security risk, and potentially time-consuming to manage.

Before deciding on guest WiFi for your business, consider the pros and cons to make an informed choice. Let’s take a close look at the benefits and risks of offering guest WiFi and the best practices for setting up and managing guest WiFi at your business.

Benefits of Offering WiFi

Providing free WiFi to your customers can make a significant impact on the success of your business. Offering guest WiFi has several benefits that not only elevate customer experience but also boost your brand’s visibility and reputation.
Here are some of the top benefits of guest WiFi:

Improves Customer Satisfaction

It feels great to be able to access the internet while enjoying a cup of coffee at your favorite cafe or waiting in a queue at a store. Providing guest WiFi means that your customers can browse the web, check their emails, or catch up with work on the go. This adds a level of convenience that customers value and increases their overall satisfaction with your service.

Free WiFi Encourages Customers to Stay Longer

Guest WiFi offers your customers a source of entertainment and an opportunity to relax and unwind. They can stream videos, read articles, or connect with friends and family on social media. This keeps them interested and makes them stay longer, leading to more money for your business.

WiFi Lets Customers to Engage with Your Brand

While waiting for their orders to be fulfilled, customers can use your guest WiFi to explore your website or social media pages. This gives them an opportunity to engage with your brand and learn more about your products or services, effectively promoting your business for free.

Positions Your Business as Tech-Forward

By providing WiFi, you show that your business is embracing technology to better serve your customers. This makes your business look modern and attracts tech-savvy customers who value digital amenities.

Potential Risks and Challenges of Guest WiFi

Guest WiFi can be a great asset to any business, but it can also come with its own set of risks and challenges. Here are some of the risks and challenges you should keep in mind:

• Network slowdowns: Sharing your WiFi with guests can put a strain on your primary business network, causing it to slow down or even crash altogether. This can negatively impact the productivity and efficiency of your employees, as well as the customer experience.
• IT expertise required: Setting up a guest WiFi network isn’t as simple as just plugging in a router and giving out the password. It requires a certain level of IT expertise to properly configure the network and manage the bandwidth. If you lack this knowledge, you may end up with a poorly optimized network that is prone to technical issues.
• Possibility of getting hacked: If your guest WiFi network isn’t properly secured, it can make your entire company network vulnerable to cyber attacks. This can put your sensitive data and confidential information at risk, potentially leading to a major breach and significant financial loss.

While there are a number of potential risks with guest WiFi, having the right precautions and measures in place can minimize these risks and reap the benefits of offering this amenity to your customers.

Best Practices for Secured and Managed Guest WiFi

If you are ready to move forward with guest WiFi at your business, it’s crucial to have it set up and managed properly to mitigate risk. Here are several best practices to keep in mind:

Create a Guest Network

A separate public network with guest controls is a fundamental feature of a secured guest WiFi network. It allows you to distinguish guests’ traffic from your internal network, limiting possible cyber threats that could exploit weakly-protected guest devices to access your systems. Secure guest WiFi reduces the risks of unauthorized access, data theft, and fraud.

Require a Password or Legal Waiver

Your guest WiFi should have a distinct network name and password. To control guest access to the internet, you can have them agree to the network rules by using a login portal and agreeing to a legal waiver.

Monitor and Limit Bandwidth Usage

Monitoring bandwidth usage will help ensure that heavy usage by one user does not cause internet speed issues for others. Having a bandwidth monitor will help you understand your usage trends, determine the capacity, and ensure that speed and user experience are not impacted.

Protect Sensitive Resources

Secured and managed guest WiFi should limit access to sensitive internal resources such as financial data, customer databases, or servers. These resources should not be accessible to everyone, especially guests. Make sure you configure your network wireless settings properly and block any unauthorized activity.

Regularly Update Password and Settings

Ensure that you change your guest network password and settings regularly to keep them confidential. Hackers can quickly gain unauthorized access, view, and misuse the old settings, resulting in business losses. 

Make Sure Your Primary Network Remains Private and Secure

Securing your primary network should be a top priority. Ensure that you set up security measures such as firewalls, VPNs, and encryption. Having a separate guest WiFi network helps reduce the risks of unauthorized access to your private network.

Work with an IT Professional

Working with an IT professional to set up a secured and managed guest WiFi network is vital. With their expertise and experience, they can help you design and execute a customized solution tailored to your unique requirements. This means that you can save time and effort, free up valuable resources, and ensure that your network remains up-to-date and protected against security threats in the long run.

Guest WiFi Installation and Protection with Everound

Setting up guest WiFi rightly can seem daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team of IT professionals has the expertise to handle the setup and installation of guest WiFi. Why leave your business open to risk by doing it yourself?

Every business has unique needs and client expectations, and your guest WiFi setup should reflect that. Contact us today to discover how we can make this happen. Let us focus on your IT, so you can focus on your business.