WiFi services
All your questions about optimising WiFi through to the end device.
What's involved in WiFi installation?
WiFi installation involves setting up access points and connecting it to a router, which itself hooks into your internet service. Our technicians will ensure optimal placement for maximum coverage, configure the network settings, and make sure all your devices are connected and working seamlessly.
What does WiFi optimisation entail exactly?
WiFi optimisation involves adjusting your network settings, positioning your router for best coverage, and eliminating interference sources. It ensures you get the fastest, most reliable WiFi signal throughout your space, minimising dead zones and improving overall performance.
Can Vanilla manage the network for my business?
Yes, Vanilla can manage your business network. We offer comprehensive network management services, including monitoring, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring your business stays connected and runs smoothly without any IT hassles.
What is enterprise WiFi?
Enterprise WiFi is a robust wireless network solution designed for businesses. It offers high performance, security, and scalability to support numerous devices and heavy data usage. It ensures reliable connectivity for employees, guests, and IoT devices in a professional environment.
I've heard a lot about range extenders. Are they any good?
Range extenders are said to help improve WiFi coverage in areas where the signal is weak. However, they can sometimes reduce overall network speed. We’ve done extensive research and do not support range extenders or powerline converters. For better performance, we recommend using mesh WiFi systems or additional access points. Chat to us about getting maximum speeds using WiFi access points.
Can I make do with a single router if I'm in a small space (60sqm)?
Yes, in a small space like 60sqm, a single router is usually sufficient to provide good WiFi coverage. Ensure the router is centrally located for the best signal distribution. As a rule of thumb, an apartment, office or house with boundaries of no more than 25m apart can be serviced by a single Cudy WR1300 (speeds of 900 Mbps).
What do you suggest for a larger home of office?
For a larger home of office, we recommend a multiple access point installation to ensure consistent coverage in all rooms. This setup will eliminate dead zones and provide strong, reliable WiFi throughout the space.
Do you have advice on network names and improving WiFi?
We've been testing different WiFi setups, using both a Ubiquiti UniFi Access Point and a MikroTik mAP lite. By spacing these access points apart but giving them the same network name (SSID), we checked how well mobile devices stayed connected. We found that your device will connect to the access point with the strongest signal when it disconnects, but it won’t automatically switch to a better connection unless both access points are Ubiquiti UniFis, which coordinate the handover.
So, if you move around and notice your WiFi signal is weak, try turning your device's WiFi off and on again—this forces it to connect to the fastest signal. Alternatively, you can give your access points different names, like 'TV Room' and 'Study,' and manually switch to the closest one for a better connection.
What name should I use for my WiFi network?
Use a network name that's unique and recognisable. Avoid common names such as linksys, netgear, or wireless. Best practice for WiFi names is to use your company name, abbreviated for the staff, and with '-guest' suffixed for the guest wireless.
My business is growing. What's needed to upgrade my solution for additional capacity?
As your business grows, you might need to upgrade your internet plan for higher speeds, add more access points, or invest in a more powerful router. We can assess your current setup and recommend upgrades to support additional users and devices, ensuring your network scales with your business. Get in touch.
Can you recommend quality access points?
Absolutely! We recommend access points from reputable brands like Ubiquiti UniFi and TP-Link Omada. Tried and tested, we can assure their reliable performance, security features, and scalability to meet your business or home network needs.
How do you support your 99% uptime guarantee?
We support our 99% uptime guarantee with robust infrastructure, proactive monitoring, and quick response to any issues. Our team is dedicated to maintaining high service reliability and promptly addressing any disruptions to keep you connected.
My connection is poor. How do I know if it's my network configuration or the line quality?
If your connection is poor, start by checking your network configuration—ensure your router is properly set up and there are no interference sources. If the issue persists, it might be the line quality. Contact our support team; we can run diagnostics to identify the problem and provide solutions.
I have an SLA with Vanilla. Who do I contact to trouble-shoot issues?
Email an expert on contactus@vanilla.co.za. Our expert staff are delighted to answer any questions you might have. Call us during office hours to chat to one of our Sales or Support team
If you’re based within the Vanilla footprint, you can call us for on-site technical support. Our emergency number for critical after hours issues is 081 310 0032.
Prefer a face-to-face conversation? Our door is always open, do pop by: 5th floor, 125 Buitengracht street, Cape Town, 8018, South Africa
How fast will my WiFi be after installation?
Speed depends on your internet plan and hardware. We'll optimise for the best performance possible.
Can you ensure coverage in every room?
Absolutely! We'll map out your space and strategically place access points for reliable coverage throughout.
What happens if I experience connection issues?
Just give us a shout! We offer ongoing support to troubleshoot and resolve any connectivity hiccups.
Will my existing devices work with the new WiFi?
In most cases, yes. We'll ensure compatibility and configure everything to work seamlessly with your devices.
Do I need to worry about security?
Not at all! We'll set up encryption and security protocols to keep your network safe from intruders.
Can you expand the network if my business grows?
Yes, absolutely! We'll scale your WiFi network to accommodate any growth or changes in your business.
How often will I need maintenance?
With our proactive approach, you'll likely only need occasional check-ins. We'll keep things running smoothly.
Can I manage the network myself?
Sure! We can provide you with user-friendly tools to monitor and manage your WiFi network if you prefer.
What if I want to upgrade my hardware later?
No problem! Take a look at our tried and tested hardware, or we can advise on upgrades and handle the installation for you whenever you're ready.
Do you offer service level agreements (SLAs)?
Yes, we offer SLAs for businesses needing guaranteed uptime and priority support. Contact us and let's discuss what works for you.
How does Vanilla help manage and organise my internet equipment and cables?
At Vanilla, we’re all about keeping things tidy, Marie Kondo style! We go beyond just your router, offering a clean, organised solution for your distribution board and cable clutter.
We’ll label and connect all your internet-related equipment to a single power source, neatly housed in our sleek DB boards. This not only makes maintenance and troubleshooting easier but also keeps your space looking organised. Our custom designed wall-mounted distribution boards protect and ventilate your equipment, and for an extra touch, we offer covers that match your room decor!
Specifications:
- Standard plywood boxes: 360mm (W) x 480mm (H) x 6mm (D)
- Covers: Shade cloth in custom colour on 9mm frames - contact us
- Wall-mounted with wooden blocks near a power source