Questions to Ask Before Upgrading Internet, Phones, Wi-Fi, or Cameras
Key questions to ask before upgrading internet service, phone systems, Wi-Fi, or security cameras to avoid costly mistakes and get the right solution for your organization.
Questions about internet upgrades
- What speed do we actually need versus what we are being sold?
- Is upload speed important for our cloud backups, video calls, and remote access?
- What is the contract term, early termination fee, and price after the promotional period?
- Is there a data cap or throttling after a certain usage level?
Questions about phone and Wi-Fi upgrades
- Does our internet connection support VoIP reliably, or do we need to upgrade internet first?
- What features do we actually need: auto attendant, voicemail-to-email, mobile app, call recording?
- Is this Wi-Fi equipment business-grade or consumer-grade?
- How will guest and business networks be properly separated?
Questions about security camera upgrades
- What resolution do we need for our coverage goals? Higher is not always better.
- How many days of retention do we need and is the storage sized for that?
- Can we view cameras remotely from phones and computers?
- Will the camera traffic affect our network performance? Should cameras be on a separate VLAN?
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I upgrade everything at once or one system at a time?
One system at a time is usually less disruptive and easier to budget. Prioritize based on what is causing the most problems or posing the most risk. Internet and network upgrades often make the biggest immediate difference.
How do I compare quotes from different providers?
Create a standard list of questions and send the same list to each provider. Compare not just price but equipment specifications, warranty, support terms, and timeline. The cheapest quote is rarely the best value.
Need help?
Maine CyberTech helps Maine organizations evaluate technology upgrades, compare options, and make informed decisions. Contact us before you sign a contract or buy equipment.
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