Current Trends in Tech Could Mean a Bigger Strain on Your Network

Technology is developing at a rapid pace. And for the most part, it’s great! Smart technology can make your lifestyle simpler, your home entertainment more fun and it can even lower your energy costs. But as you integrate more and more technology, there’s also more demand put on your network. When that happens, it’s time to upgrade your home networking capabilities. In this blog, we’ll explain some common terms surrounding your network to help you improve yours more efficiently.

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Bandwidth

The most important aspect of your network, at least where automation and entertainment are concerned, is the bandwidth. The higher the bandwidth, the more information you can send simultaneously throughout your network. If you intend to operate a smart thermostat, a wireless audio system, motorized shades and integrated lighting all on the same network, you’re going to need sufficient bandwidth.

One of the most common reasons homeowners upgrade their bandwidth today is to experience the full power of 4K UHD picture quality. When you’re streaming a 4K movie off of the internet, you need to make sure that there’s enough space for the entire signal to travel the network. Remember, 4K UHD is about four times the picture quality of standard HD, so that means there’s a lot more information. If you want to use HDR technology or stream lossless audio formats as well, you could be in for a serious upgrade.

Wired or Wireless

When talking about your network, many homeowners think that everything should be wireless. And it’s a great way to go if you want to avoid the initial investment of heavy installation. Wireless networks continue to improve, to the point that top brands like Denon offer entirely wireless audio lines like Heos. Manufacturers have noted that the world is moving toward wireless, so you should be able to get the quality you’re satisfied with if you go that route.

Conversely, hardwired networks are still favored by most professionals. They do require a bigger initial investment of time and money, but they can pay off in the long run. Hardwired networks are more reliable and require less maintenance down the line, and they can add value to your home. If you’re considering a big system upgrade, check out your hardwired networking options.

Router

Some homeowners often think that their network capabilities are determined by the speed of their internet package. But the truth is, your internet service provider can only tell you how fast it’s working on their end. Once it’s in your home, you could suffer through lag and other slowdowns if you don’t have the right equipment.

One common issue is your internet router. It’s always important to make sure that your router is powerful enough to handle and disperse the internet signals it’s receiving. You can always ask your local custom electronics professional for help if you need to know how your network is doing.

Have more questions about your home network? Contact Audio Video Charlotte Home for more information today!