For those not familiar with Wi-Fi, the idea that a new level of Wi-Fi standards is quickly taking over, potentially changing how your business operates, can sound overwhelming. It isn’t – I promise. Take away the technical jargon and you’re basically left with this:  the arrival and adoption of Wi-Fi 802.11ac is actually here to improve how your business functions, as well as the productivity of your employees and the satisfaction of your customers and guests.

802.11ac is the newest generation of Wi-Fi technology, replacing 802.11n which was introduced in 2009. 802.11ac has been around for a little under two years, but has only recently seen an uptick in implementation in business and personal usage. This means that Wi-Fi technology hadn’t been updated in over FOUR YEARS, despite the daily needs and usage by everything from smart phones and tablets, to home security systems and hospitals. So, what does this shiny, new update do for you and your business?

As a business, the main benefit you’ll see from upgrading is that this technology embraces the BYOD (bring your own device) movement. The “office” no longer means a physical desk or nurses’ station – it involves access to all things business from any location. 802.11ac provides up to three times the performance and speed of previous 802.11n networks, meaning you’ll have the speed, competency and reliability needed for critical business functions. It also offers upgraded security for mobile devices, providing additional confidence for your employees working on-the-go.

The productivity of your employees is also improved in various methods. With the implementation of 802.11ac, your employees will easily be able to work from several devices – personal smartphones, work smartphones, tablets, laptops – without experiencing delays. This upgraded technology can actually deliver high speed data to up to 8 devices AT THE SAME TIME. Again, this is three times the ability of the current 802.11n devices.

Utilizing the increased speed and functionality can also help you increase your customer satisfaction and, thus, revenue. Most people are so hungry for readily available Wi-Fi that they’ll consider changing their favorite coffee-spot or book a room with a hotel they’re not used to, just to have the connection. Being able to offer a wireless network without delay can bring customers to your doorstep so they can still utilize their devices without concern. The Wi-Fi label on a shop door is a marketing gold mine for finding customers who don’t want to unplug while running errands.

Avaya is already an expert in office and business solutions, including the recent release of Avaya IP Office 9.1, which reinforces the mobilization of businesses. As an Avaya Platinum Partner, STL Communications is eager to help you determine how to best adopt 802.11ac Wi-Fi into your business model. Give us a call at (314) 205-7100 to help you find the right path for technology bliss for your company, your employees and your customers.