Wi-Fi & Network Setup
Managed switch configuration, on site
New switches need setting up properly, not just plugged in.
New switches need setting up properly, not just plugged in.
Unboxing a managed switch and plugging it in works, but leaves default passwords, every port on one network and no protection against loops. We set the management address and credentials, update firmware, configure VLANs and trunk ports, set PoE priorities and turn on loop protection so a looped cable in a meeting room cannot bring down the office. Spanning tree is tuned to suit the layout.
What the technician does
- Configure VLANs, PoE and uplinks
- Secure management access
- Document the settings
We work with Ubiquiti, Cisco Meraki, TP-Link, Aruba and more.
About managed switch configuration
Uplinks between switches and to the firewall are set for the right speed and, where needed, link aggregation. If you use a cloud controller such as UniFi or Meraki, the switch is adopted and configured there. We then document every port's purpose, VLAN and connected device, and save a configuration backup so a failed switch can be replaced quickly. Remote access to the switches is locked down.
What usually causes it
- New switches purchased but left at defaults
- Network-wide outages from a looped cable
- Adding VLANs for cameras, guests or phones
- Previous installer left no record of settings
Before we arrive
- A floor plan or rough sketch of the building, if you have one
- Your internet provider's account details
- Router and switch admin logins if you know them
- A list of the rooms or areas where Wi-Fi is worst
What a visit looks like
When you book managed switch configuration, you tell us what's going on and we reply with a time that suits you and a price. Nothing starts until you're happy with both.
On the day, the technician arrives, looks at the problem in person and confirms the plan with you before starting. If something turns out different from what was expected - a part is needed, or the cause is somewhere else - we stop and agree the change with you first.
When the work is done we test it with you, show you what was changed, and leave the area tidy. For business jobs we note what we did, so there is a record for whoever looks after your IT next.
Pricing
Each managed switch configuration job is priced before work starts. The price depends on what's involved - the size of the site, the equipment, and whether parts are needed - so the quickest way to a number is to tell us about the job on the booking form.
There is no contract and no monthly fee. You book the job you need and pay for that job.
Managed switch configuration: questions
Should the switch management be on its own network?
Ideally yes. Keeping management on a separate VLAN, reachable only from admin devices, stops someone on the office network from logging into the switches. Two-step sign-in on the controller adds another layer of protection.
What happens if a switch fails?
With a saved configuration and documentation, a replacement can be loaded with the same settings rather than built from scratch, which shortens the outage considerably.
Do you do managed switch configuration on site?
Yes. We come to businesses and homes across Auckland and Hamilton and do the work where the equipment is.
How much does managed switch configuration cost?
It depends on what's involved. Tell us about the job on the form and we'll confirm the price before any work starts.