Improving a Nonprofit’s Network Without Overspending

Client Overview

A nonprofit providing emergency housing and support services struggled with unreliable Wi-Fi and network performance across multiple buildings. Staff relied on email, cloud applications, VoIP phones, and Zoom meetings to deliver services, but frequent connectivity issues disrupted daily operations.

Like many nonprofits, the organization had a limited technology budget and wanted to improve performance before purchasing new equipment.

The Challenge

Staff experienced:

• Slow internet and Wi-Fi speeds
• Frequent wireless disconnects
• Unreliable phone service
• Inconsistent coverage throughout the buildings

Our assessment identified several contributing factors:

• Consumer-grade networking equipment supporting a business environment
• Heavy reliance on Wi-Fi despite existing network cabling
• Staff and guest devices sharing the same wireless network
• Limited visibility into the network configuration
• Previous troubleshooting that addressed symptoms rather than root causes

Although the internet provider reported no issues with its service, the local network required closer examination.

Our Assessment

Instead of immediately recommending new hardware, NerdsToGo performed an onsite evaluation that included:

• Wireless performance testing
• Review of network equipment placement
• Inspection of existing cabling
• Device connectivity review
• Basic security assessment
• Discussions with staff about daily workflows

The assessment showed that most issues were caused by the internal network, not the internet connection.

Key Findings

We found several opportunities for improvement:

• Existing Ethernet cabling was rarely used.
• Wireless equipment needed better placement and configuration.
• Staff and guest traffic shared the same network.
• Guest devices competed with business devices for bandwidth.
• Existing equipment lacked business-grade management and security features.

Many of these issues could be improved without replacing all existing hardware.

Our Recommendation

Rather than recommending a costly replacement project, we proposed a three-phase approach.

Phase 1: Optimize What Already Exists

Before purchasing new equipment, we recommended:

• Reconfiguring the existing network
• Improving Wi-Fi coverage with current equipment where possible
• Hardwiring stationary computers
• Reducing unnecessary wireless traffic
• Verifying ISP performance
• Reviewing internet services and billing for cost savings

This approach delivers immediate improvements while identifying which upgrades are truly necessary.

Phase 2: Upgrade to a Business-Class Network

Once the network was stable, we recommended implementing:

• Separate staff and guest Wi-Fi
• Network segmentation
• Centralized management
• Improved wireless coverage
• Better performance under heavy usage
• Stronger security

Phase 3: Ongoing IT Support

To keep the environment reliable, we also recommended proactive services including:

• Endpoint management
• Cybersecurity monitoring
• Backup verification
• Patch management
• User support
• Technology planning

Results

By following the phased approach, the organization significantly improved network performance without replacing every piece of equipment.

Key improvements included:

• More reliable internet and Wi-Fi
• Stable Zoom meetings and VoIP calls
• Better use of existing network cabling
• Separate staff and guest wireless networks
• Stronger security through network segmentation
• Lower monthly telecommunications costs after eliminating a redundant ISP account

The organization now has a dependable network, improved security, and a clear roadmap for future upgrades while staying within budget.

Why This Approach Works

Many organizations assume slow internet means they need faster internet service or expensive new hardware.
In many cases, the real causes are:

• Poor Wi-Fi design
• Improper equipment placement
• Network congestion
• Shared business and guest traffic
• Misconfigured hardware
• Underused wired connections

Addressing these issues first often provides substantial performance improvements while avoiding unnecessary spending.

The NerdsToGo Difference

Our philosophy is simple:

Optimize first. Upgrade with purpose.

We begin by understanding how a client’s network is actually being used, identifying the root causes of performance issues, and recommending practical, cost-effective solutions.

Often, the best investment is improving what the client already owns before purchasing new technology.