Home Network Configurations and Considerations for Deaf/HOH Consumers and Teleworkers

Overview

This blog entry covers two example diagrams of generic home network configurations for deaf/hoh consumers and teleworkers: Simple and Complex. While home network diagrams are not new, rarely do diagrams illustrate networking considerations for this population segment.

Deaf consumers and teleworkers are likely to have more devices on their home networks that utilize video streaming for video conferencing and relay interpreters. Thus are more likely to consume more ISP bandwidth and data - which requires a more robust network.

In fact - if there are multiple deaf/hoh consumers/teleworkers and children in a home - their bandwidth and data needs are likely to be much higher than the average hearing family due to more reliance and usage of video services such as FaceTime, Video Relay Services, and online meetings.

We all know now that dial-up Internet is no longer feasible for todays interconnected world. If still utilizing dial-up, consider signing up for DSL or broadband Internet services in your area. Some challenges may exist in rural areas. But it doesn’t hurt to look into what services may be available.

In some cases, a Wifi hotspot may be sufficient for your needs. But again, such services may be limited in rural areas. Be forewarned, Wifi hotspots can be expensive and have data caps. Reach out to your area service providers and friends for suggestions.

Diagrams Illustrated in this Blog Simple Home Network: for light and casual users needing streaming TV, Internet and some usage of video relay services. (Click image for a larger view)

Complex Home Network: for multi-users and teleworkers. This type of network consists of many devices and multiple networks. While there may be other connected devices, this diagram was kept to a manageable presentable view. (Click image for a larger view)

Connectivity

Some teleworkers may be required to use a VPN or other types of gateways to connect to their office networks. Consult with your office technical staff for support - VPNs are not covered in this blog.

The trick with larger and more complex home networks is to have the right level of ISP speed, type of router, or if needed include a gigabit ethernet switch.

Some Internet providers offer various levels of connectivity speeds. Lower speeds ($) are good for light web usage but not for multiple devices. Mid-level ($$) speeds are probably the most common package used by consumers. Higher levels ($$$) of ISP speeds are for more bandwidth intensive needs and small businesses. There is a cost variance between speed levels offered.

Not only do ISP speeds make a difference, the router choice also makes a difference in being able to handle multiple devices. Low-end routers are good for light usage. Mid-level and higher end routers provide the ability to serve many devices at once. General advice is to review the routers capabilities on the packages in the store or online to see if it meets your needs. Obviously a more capable router will cost more money. But if you are teleworker, it pays for itself in a short amount of time.

Renting vs Buying Your Own Router

Your ISP (internet service provider) may rent a router to you if you are uncomfortable with selecting a router or managing your home network. Renting a router requires forever payments and you may get upgrades over time.

Purchasing your own router may pay for itself usually within a year. Just be sure to keep its firmware up to date and / or replace the device when it is considered obsolete. Again reach out to your ISP to find out what routers are recommended and compatible.

Sometimes you may run out of ports in the back of your router. If that happens, consider getting a gigabit ethernet switch(at BestBuy), which allows you to plug in additional CAT5 connections for your devices. Not all devices will need to be plugged in - some devices are entirely wireless capable.

Network Set Up

Setting up a home network can sometimes be frustrating. Unless you are a tech wizard, suggest starting with connecting one device at a time, test it out and if it works. Move on to adding additional devices. Over the years, I’ve had to redo my network to replace a device or two.

Not all home networks will have the same configurations and needs, which will vary among homeowners and users. The Complex network diagram is somewhat similar to my home network for a point of reference.

Lastly, ensure you set up a unique password for your network to prevent hackers and others from getting into your network and using your services or devices.

Comments and suggestions are welcomed.

Happy Networking!