Your Local Area Network (LAN) is the digital heartbeat of your business. Whether you’re running a small office, a retail store, or a large enterprise, selecting the right network devices—switches, access points, and routers—is essential for achieving high performance, strong security, and scalable growth.

At Atlas Channels, we help businesses design and build powerful LAN infrastructures that support everything from routine operations to demanding applications like video conferencing, cloud computing, and real-time collaboration tools.

Choosing the right combination of devices ensures not just connectivity, but operational efficiency, security, and the ability to scale as your needs evolve. Here’s what you need to know when selecting network devices:

1. Switches: The Core Connectors of Your Network

Switches are the backbone of your LAN. They connect all the devices within your network—computers, printers, servers, cameras, and phones—allowing them to share information quickly and securely.

Types of Switches to Consider:

• Unmanaged Switches
  These switches are simple, plug-and-play devices. They require no configuration and are ideal for small businesses or temporary setups that don’t need advanced network management.
• Managed Switches
  Managed switches allow administrators to configure settings, create Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), monitor traffic, and implement Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize critical applications. They provide enhanced control, security, and scalability.
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) Switches
  PoE switches deliver both data and electrical power over a single Ethernet cable. They are useful for powering devices like IP security cameras, wireless access points, and VoIP phones without needing additional power outlets.

Recommendation:

For businesses aiming to grow and improve network control, managed switches offer the flexibility and security needed to scale without major overhauls.

2. Access Points: Extending Your Wireless Network

An Access Point (AP) allows wireless devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets to connect to the wired network. A reliable AP ensures strong Wi-Fi coverage, fast speeds, and the capacity to handle multiple devices simultaneously.

Key Features to Look For:

• Single-Band vs. Dual-Band Access Points
  Dual-band APs can operate on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, providing better speed, reduced interference, and the ability to support more devices compared to single-band models.
• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
  Wi-Fi 6 APs offer faster data rates, increased capacity, improved performance in dense environments, and better power efficiency for connected devices. Essential for environments like offices, schools, and retail spaces where dozens or hundreds of devices might connect at once.
• Cloud-Managed Access Points
  These APs can be managed remotely through a cloud dashboard. They allow centralized updates, monitoring, and troubleshooting—perfect for businesses with multiple locations or limited IT staff on-site.

Recommendation:

Deploy multiple access points strategically throughout your office to ensure seamless coverage, eliminate dead zones, and provide a consistent wireless experience for employees and visitors alike.

3. Routers: The Gateway Between Your Network and the Internet

Routers are your network’s link to the outside world. They direct internet traffic in and out of your network, manage connections between devices, and play a crucial role in maintaining security.

Features to Consider:

• Business-Grade Routers
  These routers come with advanced features like built-in firewalls, VPN (Virtual Private Network) support, robust security protocols, and bandwidth management tools. They are built for higher traffic loads compared to consumer routers.
• Load Balancing Routers
  If your business uses multiple internet service providers (ISPs), load balancing routers can distribute traffic intelligently between connections to optimize speed and ensure failover redundancy if one ISP goes down.
• Integrated Security Routers
  Some routers combine routing capabilities with security features like intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) and advanced threat protection, minimizing the need for separate security appliances.

Recommendation:

Invest in a router that supports advanced security features, offers firmware updates, traffic shaping, and provides VPN capabilities, especially if you have remote workers or sensitive data transmissions.

How to Choose the Right Mix for Your LAN

The best LAN design considers your business goals, office layout, number of users, application demands, and growth expectations. A well-planned network minimizes bottlenecks, supports reliable communication, and ensures your IT infrastructure is future-ready.

Ask yourself:

• How many devices will connect now and in the future?
• What types of applications (VoIP, video conferencing, cloud apps) will run on the network?
• How critical is uptime and wireless performance for your daily operations?
• Are there security or compliance requirements to consider?
• Will you need remote monitoring or cloud management?

If your network is slow, unreliable, or prone to outages, it can severely impact productivity and customer experience. Choosing the right combination of switches, access points, and routers can make the difference between a business that thrives and one that struggles with constant IT headaches.

Why Choose Atlas Channels?

At Atlas Channels, we don’t just sell devices—we partner with you to build tailored network solutions that support your mission. We offer:

• Professional assessment of your networking needs
• Supply of enterprise-grade network equipment
• Expert installation and configuration of LAN and wireless networks
• Ongoing support, monitoring, and upgrade services
• Security-first design to protect your business assets

With the right LAN infrastructure in place, your business can run faster, safer, and smarter—freeing your team to focus on what matters most: growing your success.

Ready to Build or Upgrade Your Network?

Let Atlas Channels be your trusted partner in creating a high-performance, secure, and scalable LAN infrastructure. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how the right network can transform your operations.