Wi-Fi & Network Solutions

A fast, reliable, and secure network is essential for any modern home or business. Whether you're streaming 4K content, running a smart home, or managing a high-demand office, your network needs to be designed for performance, stability, and future growth.

At 1install, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. While we have brands we trust, we always provide a Good, Better, Best option to suit your needs and budget. Unlike some companies that push a single brand, our priority is finding the right solution for you.

Choosing the Right Network Equipment

Different brands offer different strengths, and the best choice depends on your specific requirements. Here’s a breakdown of some of the networking solutions we use and why.

Routers & Network Management

The router is the heart of your network, managing internet traffic, security, and device connections. Choosing the right one ensures stability, security, and speed.

• DrayTek – A feature-rich and reliable choice, particularly for VPN support, business-grade security, and advanced controls.
• Ubiquiti Dream Machine (UDM) – A strong contender for home users and small businesses, offering good performance, Wi-Fi management, and cloud control.
• Cisco – An enterprise-level solution, perfect for high-security environments or businesses needing high uptime and scalability.
• Netgear – A solid option for home users and small businesses that need cost-effective performance without complex configurations.

Some users need advanced security and control, while others want simple plug-and-play performance. We help you decide which is right for you.

Wi-Fi Access Points & Coverage Solutions

A single router often isn’t enough to provide full coverage, especially in larger homes or properties with thick walls. This is where Wi-Fi access points (APs) come in.

• Ruckus – One of the best for high-performance, large-scale deployments. Its adaptive Wi-Fi technology actively adjusts to interference and device load.
• Cisco – The gold standard for secure, scalable, and business-grade Wi-Fi.
• Ubiquiti Unifi – A good balance of performance and cost, with cloud-based management for homes and small businesses.
• Netgear – A budget-friendly choice, suitable for smaller homes or basic coverage extension.

For larger properties, a well-designed system with multiple access points eliminates dead spots and provides seamless roaming. We ensure full coverage without overselling unnecessary equipment.

Network Switches – The Backbone of Your Wired Network

A network switch plays a crucial role in distributing your internet connection to multiple wired devices, providing faster, more stable connections than Wi-Fi alone.

• Managed vs Unmanaged Switches – Managed switches allow for more control over network traffic, ideal for smart homes and businesses, while unmanaged switches work well for basic plug-and-play setups.
• Gigabit vs 10GbE – Most homes and businesses benefit from gigabit switches, but for ultra-high-performance networks or media production, 10GbE may be the better choice.
• Power over Ethernet (PoE) – Switches with PoE can power devices like Wi-Fi access points, CCTV cameras, and VoIP phones, reducing the need for extra power cables.

We assess your setup and recommend whether a basic switch will suffice or if an advanced PoE switch is necessary for seamless integration.

Good, Better, Best – Finding the Right Fit

We always provide three options to ensure you get the right solution:

Good – Reliable performance for standard home use or small businesses.
Better – Enhanced security, wider coverage, and greater reliability for growing households or larger premises.
Best – Enterprise-grade solutions for maximum performance, scalability, and security.

Many installers push the most expensive option by default, but that’s not how we work. Some homes don’t need a full Cisco enterprise setup, just as some businesses won’t be happy with a basic Unifi installation. We tailor the right solution based on your actual needs.

What About Wi-Fi 6 and Future-Proofing?

Wi-Fi technology continues to evolve, with Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 promising:

• Faster speeds for 4K/8K streaming, gaming, and video conferencing.
• Better multi-device handling, reducing congestion in busy households.
• Lower power consumption, improving battery life for smart devices.

However, not every home or business needs an immediate upgrade. We assess whether your current setup can be optimised before recommending a full replacement. If an upgrade makes sense, we future-proof your network, ensuring it lasts for years.

Upgrades, Repairs & Expanding Your Network

If you're struggling with slow speeds, connection dropouts, or Wi-Fi dead zones, it doesn’t always mean replacing everything. We can:

• Diagnose weak spots and fine-tune your existing setup.
• Replace underperforming equipment while keeping what still works.
• Expand your network for better coverage and performance.

Our focus is on improving what you have first, rather than suggesting unnecessary replacements.