Buying Guide: How To Set Up A Home Office

Setting up a home office can improve your small business’ productivity. We help you: choose the right laptop or desktop computer; set up a wireless network with router and modem; pick essential software like anti-virus security; and more.

What Type Of Computer Do I Choose?

If your work doesn’t require you to take a computer with you, then a desktop computer is ideal. Desktops are cost effective and offer great performance. They can be easily upgraded and are highly versatile (they can also be used as gaming computers and media libraries to store you music and videos).

For those who take work out of the office, laptops – also referred to as notebooks – come in a range of sizes, from the thin and light Ultra Low Voltage (ULV) to the larger desktop replacements. The size and weight of the laptop is often dictated by the level of features and performance available.

When selecting a computer for your home office, consider the following:

Processor – The “brains” of the computer, that determines how fast it functions

Desktops range between 1.40 and 3.90 GHz
Laptops range between 1 and 2.60 GHz
Ultrabooks range between 1.60 and 1.90 GHz
Tip! Choose the fastest you can afford

Random Access Memory (RAM) – Helps your processor perform tasks by acting as temporary storage

Desktops typically have between 1 and 16GB RAM
Laptops have between 2 and 32GB
Ultrabooks have between 4 and 8GB
Tip! The more RAM, the more programs you can keep open at once, and the faster your computer will operate

Hard Drive – Where your computer stores files. Storage capacity is measured in gigabytes

Desktops and laptops can store up to 3TB
Ultrabooks can store up to 500GB
Tip! The more GB, the more files you can fit

Which Software Is Essential?

Business: For administrative, accounting and finance tasks
Anti-virus/Security: A must to protect against malicious attacks from viruses and worms
Operating system: The software that runs the tasks on your computer
Other: Programs like Microsoft Office come with essential programs, such as Word and Excel

How Do I Set Up A Wireless Network?

A “wireless” network (Wi-Fi) lets you share files between multiple computers and other devices, such as a printer, without messy cables. The devices “talk” to each other through a router.

A router with a modem enables multiple computers to connect to the Internet
Use security encryption to protect your documents

Which Type Of Printer Do I Need?

The nature of your work will dictate which type of printer you require.

Personal laser printers deliver fast, sharp print for text documents
Ink-jet printers are ideal for high quality colour output, like photographs
Multifunction printers (MFP) combine a printer with a copier, a scanner and a fax machine
Choose between a colour or mono chrome printer

Ensure the printer is compatible with your computer, and always consider the costs of consumables, such as ink cartridges

What Do I Look For In A Phone?

Look for a cordless phone with a hands-free speakerphone function. This allows you to multi-task while on hold, and is suitable for business meetings and conference calls.

Caller ID lets you screen calls for importance
An in-built answering machine is a must

How Do I Create The Right Office Environment?

A pleasant office environment can help with productivity. Consider the following:

Select a desk that is a light to medium colour with a matt finish; a dark or shiny desktop can result in too much reflection
Use a halogen desk lamp for clean, even light without shadows
Set up your monitor side-on to a window to avoid glare from the sun
Position things like stationary and the telephone within reach to avoid over-stretching and straining
Invest in a good-quality, fully-adjustable ergonomic chair with a well padded seat base
Ensure you have adequate storage, like filing cabinets, to keep your office organised
Remember to take regular breaks – stretch your muscles or go for a brisk work – as this will ensure you remain focused