In modern workplaces, internet connectivity is as crucial as electricity because the majority of business operations depend on a stable and secure internet connection. From cloud-based tools to virtual meetings and email communication, everything depends on a working internet connection. A problem that many workplaces face is that when multiple employees are using the same network simultaneously in busy workplaces, internet misuse or overuse occurs slowing down operations.
Fortunately, there are now ways and solutions with the help of which internet usage can be managed without creating friction in the workplace. So here are some tips for managing internet usage in busy workplaces to keep internet usage optimized and under control.
1. Set Clear Internet Usage Policies
Every workplace should set clear internet usage policies because the foundation of managing internet use in the workplace starts with well-documented and communicated policies. These policies should clearly outline acceptable and unacceptable use, guidelines around personal use during work hours, and repercussions for violating policies.
These internet usage policies should be a part of the onboarding process and be revisited during regular employee briefings to ensure that every member of the workplace clearly understands the importance of balanced internet use.
2. Use Network Monitoring Tools
Networking monitoring tools should be in place to monitor how the bandwidth is being used across the workplace and to identify any problem areas. There are various networking monitoring tools available, including GlassWire or NetBalancer, with the help of which you can monitor network traffic in real time, see which websites are being visited, and track bandwidth consumption by user and department.
The insights provided by networking monitoring tools can help IT teams make informed decisions, identify potential misuses, and detect security risks early on.
3. Prioritize Business-Critical Applications
Prioritizing business-critical applications on the network is essential to ensure that optimum bandwidth is allocated to applications that matter the most. For instance, business-critical applications like MS Teams, Zoom, Slack, Salesforce, or any other application should be prioritized on the network while for non-work-related applications like YouTube, Spotify, and Netflix, the bandwidth should be limited.
This can be done through the Quality of Service (QoS) settings. You can access the QoS settings and prioritize bandwidth by logging into the router admin panel, visiting the QoS settings, and prioritizing apps for business-critical bandwidth. By following these instructions, you can prioritize or limit bandwidth for specific apps to prevent lags during virtual meetings or system downtimes during critical processes.
4. Limit Access to High-Bandwidth Websites
Another way to manage internet access in busy workplaces is by limiting access to high-bandwidth websites on the network. Streaming media or large downloads can eat up bandwidth in time. Media streaming websites like Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, etc., and file-sharing platforms should be blocked during work hours using web filters and firewalls available on 192.168.1.1 to maintain productivity and internet bandwidth during work hours.
5. Promote the Use of Offline Tools When Possible
Promoting the use of offline tools should also be done in workplaces to reduce internet strain. Where appropriate and possible, offline tools should be used so that the load on the network is reduced. There are many tasks like writing, planning, or even viewing certain resources that can be done without an internet connection. Plus, employees should also be encouraged to download essential files for offline access instead of repeatedly fetching them online to prevent network overload.
6. Segment the Network
Network segmentation is another strategy that can help you control and manage internet usage more effectively. With network segmentation, you can divide your internet connection into different virtual networks, such as a separate network for guests, each department, and admission. You can allocate bandwidth to each network so that no network exceeds its limits. This can help to optimize internet usage and enhance network security by isolating critical resources from public access.
7. Educate Employees on Responsible Internet Use
No matter what solutions or strategies you apply, if your employees aren’t using the internet responsibly, then you won’t be able to manage the internet use effectively. Oftentimes, employees don’t misuse the internet intentionally; they simply are not aware of their actions. Therefore, you should educate employees on responsible internet use by explaining how bandwidth bottlenecks can affect the entire workplace and sharing best practices for responsible internet use.
