How Often Should You Upgrade Your Home Network?
Keeping Up with Your Smart Home Tech in Nashville
A strong home network is the backbone of your home. It supports everything from smart devices to your favorite streaming shows. But with technology changing at lightning speed, staying current can feel daunting for our clients in Nashville and the surrounding Middle Tennessee area. Figuring out when to upgrade your home network can mean the difference between a seamless smart home experience and dealing with annoying lags or dropouts. This post dives into how long your network hardware usually lasts, the signs it might be time to change, and how our residential IT support keeps your setup ahead of the curve.
SEE MORE: Hire a Professional for Your Home Network Installation
How Long Does Network Hardware Last?
Network hardware, like routers and switches, has a three to five years lifespan. Of course, this can vary based on how heavily you use it, the quality of your hardware, and what devices you have connected. If your router is over five years old, it might struggle to keep up with today’s demands including 4K streaming, multiple smart devices, and all the online family activity that comes with modern life.
Manufacturers do a good job of rolling out updates that improve performance and security. However, if your router's latest firmware update was announced years ago or isn't supported anymore, it’s probably time for an upgrade.
When Is It Time to Consider an Upgrade?
So, how do you know when it’s time to make that leap? Look for signs like slow internet speeds or frequent disconnections. If buffering videos or smart devices failing to connect sounds familiar, your outdated network equipment might be to blame.
Also, think about your tech collection. As you add smart devices—from fun lighting options to advanced security systems—the demand on your network grows. Older hardware often can’t handle that extra load, leading to frustrating disruptions.
Why Professional IT Support Matters
Upgrading your network can feel overwhelming, but bringing in a professional IT service can take a lot of the stress off your plate. Prodigy AV offers customized IT solutions designed with your specific needs in mind. Our team will evaluate your current setup, assess what you've got, and suggest the best equipment for your lifestyle.
Plus, we can help really fine-tune your network settings after the upgrade. This results in a quick, secure and reliable connection. Sticking with outdated tech can leave you vulnerable, and we aim to help protect your home from potential issues.
Future-Proofing Your Network
Investing in high-quality, future-proof hardware saves both time and money down the line. We use routers that support the latest standards, like Wi-Fi 6 or mesh networks. They provide a strong foundation that will adapt as technology evolves.
With features like parental controls, guest Wi-Fi, and even network monitoring, we enhance security and the overall user experience. A well-designed network makes online activities—from gaming to video calls—smooth and enjoyable.
Time to Get Proactive with Prodigy AV
If you're in Nashville or anywhere nearby and think it might be time for a network assessment or an upgrade, reach out to Prodigy AV! Our experts are ready to help you achieve peak performance for your smart home. Call or fill out our contact form to talk to our IT experts.
