Best Network Equipment for Small Business: A 2025 Buying Guide
Setting up a reliable and secure network is crucial for any small business. Whether you're running a local shop, a startup, or a remote team, having the right network equipment can make a huge difference in productivity, cybersecurity, and customer satisfaction. This guide covers the best routers, switches, access points, and firewalls tailored to small business needs in 2025.
Router: The Heart of Your Network
The router serves as the central hub of your business network, managing internet traffic and connecting all your devices. For small businesses, choosing the right router means balancing performance, security features, and reliability. Modern business routers offer advanced features like Quality of Service (QoS) controls, which prioritize critical business applications over less important traffic.
When selecting a router for your small business, consider models with Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E technology, which provide faster speeds and better performance in environments with multiple connected devices. Look for routers with robust security features, including WPA3 encryption, VPN support, and automatic firmware updates. Dual-band or tri-band capabilities help reduce network congestion, especially important if you have employees streaming video calls or accessing cloud-based applications simultaneously.
Switch: Connecting Your Devices
A network switch expands your wired connection capacity, allowing multiple devices to connect to your network through Ethernet cables. For small businesses that rely on desktop computers, printers, servers, or other wired devices, a quality switch is essential for maintaining stable, high-speed connections.
Managed switches offer more control over your network, allowing you to configure VLANs, monitor traffic, and implement security policies. Unmanaged switches are simpler and more affordable but provide less control. Consider Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches if you plan to install IP cameras, wireless access points, or VoIP phones, as they can provide both data and power through a single cable. For most small businesses, a 24-port or 48-port switch provides adequate capacity for growth.
Access Point: Strong Wi-Fi Coverage
Wireless access points extend your Wi-Fi coverage throughout your business premises, ensuring employees and customers have reliable internet access wherever they are. Unlike consumer routers, business-grade access points are designed to handle more simultaneous connections and provide better performance in challenging environments.
Consider access points with mesh capabilities for seamless roaming between different areas of your business. Features like band steering automatically direct devices to the best available frequency, while load balancing distributes connections evenly across multiple access points. For businesses with high-density environments or large spaces, ceiling-mounted access points typically provide better coverage than wall-mounted alternatives.
Firewall: Cybersecurity First
A dedicated firewall protects your business network from cyber threats, monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic to block malicious activities. While many routers include basic firewall features, dedicated firewall appliances offer more comprehensive protection and advanced security capabilities.
Next-generation firewalls (NGFWs) provide deep packet inspection, intrusion prevention, and application-level filtering. These devices can identify and block specific applications or websites that might pose security risks or reduce productivity. Many modern firewalls also include threat intelligence feeds that automatically update protection against new cyber threats. For small businesses handling sensitive customer data or operating in regulated industries, investing in a robust firewall solution is particularly important.
Network Equipment Cost Comparison
When budgeting for network equipment, costs can vary significantly based on features, brand, and capacity. Here’s a breakdown of typical pricing for small business network equipment:
| Equipment Type | Provider/Brand | Model Example | Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Router | ASUS | AX6000 Business | $300-500 |
| Business Router | Cisco | RV340W | $400-600 |
| Managed Switch | Netgear | MS510TX | $200-400 |
| Managed Switch | Ubiquiti | UniFi Switch 24 | $250-350 |
| Access Point | Aruba | Instant On AP22 | $150-250 |
| Access Point | Ubiquiti | UniFi Access Point | $180-280 |
| Firewall | SonicWall | TZ370 | $200-400 |
| Firewall | Fortinet | FortiGate 40F | $300-500 |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
Implementation and Support Considerations
When implementing new network equipment, consider working with local services providers who can assist with installation and ongoing support. Many small businesses benefit from managed IT services that handle network monitoring, security updates, and troubleshooting. This approach allows business owners to focus on their core operations while ensuring their network infrastructure remains secure and efficient.
Regular maintenance and updates are crucial for optimal network performance. Establish a schedule for firmware updates, security patches, and equipment monitoring. Consider implementing network monitoring tools that can alert you to potential issues before they impact business operations.
Investing in quality network equipment is an investment in your business’s future. The right combination of router, switch, access points, and firewall will provide a solid foundation for growth, support remote work capabilities, and protect your valuable business data. Take time to assess your current needs and plan for future expansion when making equipment selections.
