The Lifeline IT Guide to Home Technology

We recently looked at security issues around home working and how you can help mitigate against this.

This week, we take a look at equipment that can help enhance your home working experience – covering everything from routers and headphones through to cameras and the latest AI technology.

• Routers
  We’ve touched on this before, but it’s worth remembering that your home router may not be as sophisticated at managing and balancing the distribution of internet bandwidth. Improving this is not always as straightforward as getting a new router, because not all routers work with your broadband supplier. There is also the security element to factor in – some routers have security features that can be difficult to configure.

  If you are going to invest in a new router, DrayTek has a good range of products with different pricing and functionality, although it’s important to make sure you have the brand’s required security licensing. But our advice would be to speak to your IT department/supplier to get advice before spending any money. They will also be able to advise on setting up a separate ‘guest’ Wi-Fi network, so visitors to your home are not using the main network and potentially compromising security.

• Cameras

  Investing in a camera is a must for video conferencing and online meetings and new products are coming onto the market constantly. At the more expensive end is the Osbot Tiny 2 AI-Powered Webcam and for those on a smaller budget there is the Logitech C920S.
  

• Headphones

  Jabra is a brand that performs well, especially on video calls. For those who are often mobile or remote working in public spaces (such as coffee shops, hotel lobbies etc), the ‘Jabra Stealth’ is particularly useful and priced under £100.

• AI Technology
  We’re seeing an increase in the use of AI tools which act as a virtual ‘person’ whom you invite to video meetings as the note taker, efficiently summarising action points and items discussed. Whilst this technology is undoubtedly time saving, individuals and companies need to be aware of potential data issues, depending on where the AI tool stores its data. With Microsoft’s Copilot for example, all its data sits within the Microsoft 365 platform, but other AI tools, especially those that are free, may share their data in ways that do not conform to your business’ security and data management. It’s always worth checking with your IT provider/department before using these tools, especially in industries such as law and accountancy, which handle confidential financial and legal information.