Cost of Setting Up Small Business Network (Updated 2025)

Key Takeaways

If you run a small business, your network is more than just a utility—it’s the backbone of your operations. From connecting customers to powering point-of-sale systems, having the right setup matters.

Before you install anything, it’s important to understand what your network will cost upfront and what you’ll need to budget for over time. With the right plan in place, you can build a system that supports your business today and scales with you tomorrow.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this guide:

• The cost of your network setup will vary based on your space and the total number of users and connected devices.
  
• You can expect your upfront expenses to range from $500 to $5,000 or more, depending on whether you self-install or hire professionals.
  
• View a budget breakdown of essential hardware, such as routers, switches, cables and access points, as well as optional services or IT support.
  
• How much you can expect to pay for ongoing costs, like software licenses, cybersecurity tools and long-term maintenance.
  
• How to budget wisely and avoid common overspending pitfalls when building your network.

• How many employees and devices will need to be connected? More people mean more laptops, phones, printers, security systems and smart devices that all need stable, secure connections. On average, you can expect each employee to use two or three devices for work, according to a 2021 study by Beyond Identity.
  
• What type of business do you have? Different businesses have different priorities. For example, cafes and retail shops may need strong WiFi for customers and payment systems. Daycares or clinics may need secure, private networks to protect sensitive data, while offices often benefit from a mix of wired and wireless setups to support daily workflows.
  
• Are you installing it yourself or hiring professionals? Self-installing your network can save money upfront, but it may be worth it in the long run to pay for a professional installation that comes with guaranteed security and ongoing technical support.

After carefully considering your connectivity needs, you can start planning a network setup that fits your space, supports your team and falls within your budget.

• Network switch: $80–$600
  A switch expands your network by allowing multiple wired devices to connect to your router. The price depends on the number of ports and whether it’s managed (gives you more control) or unmanaged (relatively effortless plug-and-play).
  
  Businesses with more than a few wired devices, like offices or production spaces, will benefit from managed switches that support VLANs and Quality of Service (QoS).
  
• Wireless access points: $150–$300 each
  If you want strong WiFi across your space, especially in larger or multi-room setups, you’ll need one or more access points. These extend your wireless coverage without sacrificing speed.
  
  The FCC recommends that businesses using video conferencing or cloud-based apps have at least 100 Mbps download speeds, which means your access points should be able to handle high bandwidth loads reliably.
  
• Ethernet cabling and installation: $200–$1,000 or more
  Hardwiring devices with Ethernet provides faster, more stable connections than WiFi. Costs depend on how many drops (or cable runs) you need, how far they have to go and how easy they are to install in your walls or ceilings.

Popular Add-Ons for Small Business Networks

In addition to the basics, many businesses also invest in:

• Firewalls: $100–$500 or more
  While routers often include basic firewall features, a dedicated firewall adds a stronger layer of security and better control over incoming and outgoing traffic.
  
• Network-attached storage (NAS): $300–$1,500 or more
  This is a centralized way to store files and backups across your network, which is especially helpful for creative agencies, law offices or any business with shared files.
  
• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): $75–$300 per unit
  A UPS keeps your network online during power outages or surges, protecting your data and keeping critical devices like modems, routers and servers running.

When possible, invest in scalable and business-grade equipment that can grow with you. Spending a bit more upfront can help you avoid future compatibility issues or expensive upgrades later.

• Typical cost: $1,000–$3,000. However, keep in mind that some professional networking services bundle equipment, installation and support into a monthly subscription, which can reduce or eliminate upfront costs.
• Best for:
  • Medium to large offices
  • Businesses that offer essential services or strict security or compliance needs
  • Teams without in-house IT departments or expertise
  • Complex setups involving multiple access points or VLANs
• Advantages:
  • Expert configuration and optimized performance
  • Stronger security and data protection
  • Ensures equipment is installed correctly and up to code
  • Includes testing, documentation and often ongoing support options
  • You may be able to skip upfront costs by choosing a professional service with a monthly subscription and no installation fees.
• Possible Disadvantages:
  • Higher upfront cost if your provider charges installation fees
  • Scheduling may delay deployment

DIY Set Up of Your Small Business Network

If you’re confident with tech and looking to save money, a DIY setup might be a good fit. Just be prepared to invest more time upfront.

Here’s what to keep in mind if you’re self-installing your network:

• Typical cost: $500–$1,500 (hardware only). In some cases, DIY can cost more up front—and less over time—than managed professional services that bundle installation, equipment and support into a monthly fee.
• Best for:
  • Freelancers, startups or very small teams (fewer than 10 employees).
  • Tech-savvy business owners or employees
  • Businesses with basic networking needs and limited budgets
    
• Advantages:
  • Potentially lower upfront costs
  • More control over equipment choices and layout
  • Opportunity to learn more about your own network
    
• Possible Disadvantages:
  • Time-consuming set up and troubleshooting
  • Higher risk of misconfiguration or security gaps
  • May require calling in support later if issues arise
    

DIY can work well for simple setups. Just make sure you’re comfortable configuring routers, switches and security settings before diving in.

• Antivirus and Malware Protection: $5–$10 per user per month
  Each connected device, including laptops, tablets, printers and smart equipment, can be a target for viruses, spyware or ransomware. Antivirus software runs in the background to detect, block and remove malicious software before it can cause damage.
  
  Subscribing to a reliable antivirus service for every user helps prevent data breaches, device slowdowns and costly downtime.
  
• Network Monitoring or Management Tools: $15–$50 per month
  These tools give you real-time visibility into what’s happening on your network. You can track performance, monitor bandwidth usage, detect unusual behavior and troubleshoot problems faster. For growing businesses or teams using cloud services, network monitoring helps maintain speed, stability and security across your entire setup.

In addition to these essentials, here are a few other smart tools to consider:

• Cloud-based backup services: $10–15 per month (depending on data volume and frequency of backups)
  Backing up your data to the cloud ensures you don’t lose important files in the event of hardware failure, cyberattack or human error. Instead of relying on manual backups or external hard drives, cloud backup automates the process and stores your files off-site for added peace of mind. Cost typically depends on how much data you’re backing up and how often.
  
• Virtual Private Network (VPN) services: $5–$15 per user per month
  A VPN creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your network and remote devices. This is especially useful if your team works from home, uses public WiFi or accesses sensitive systems remotely. A VPN helps prevent unauthorized access and protects data while it’s in transit.
  
• Password Managers: $3–$8 per user per month
  Strong passwords are one of the simplest ways to protect your network, but trying to remember them all can cost your employees time and productivity. Password managers store and generate secure, unique passwords for each login. They’re especially helpful for teams who share access to business platforms or tools, and many offer admin dashboards and audit logs for added security oversight.

Together, these tools strengthen your network’s defenses, improve performance visibility and reduce the risk of costly setbacks. While software often seems like a “nice-to-have,” in 2025, it’s a non-negotiable part of keeping your business online, secure and running smoothly.

• Renewing Software Licenses: $100–$500 per year
  Most networking software, including firewalls, antivirus or network monitoring tools, charges annual renewal fees. These keep your tools up to date with the latest security patches and compliance features.
  
• Replacing Aging Hardware: $200–$1,500 every 3–5 years
  Most routers, switches and access points last three to five years before performance declines or support ends. Expect to replace basic hardware (like routers) for around $200–$500, while more advanced or higher-capacity gear can run $1,000 or more. Building a gradual replacement cycle into your budget helps avoid surprise expenses down the road.
  
• Managed IT Services: $100–$300 per month
  If you don’t have in-house IT staff, a Managed Service Provider (MSP) can handle everything from monitoring to security patches and remote troubleshooting. Costs vary based on service level and number of users/devices, but most small businesses spend between $100 and $300 per month.
  
  This option can be especially valuable for businesses that need reliable support without hiring a full-time IT team.

By planning for these recurring costs now, you’ll help protect your investment, avoid service interruptions and keep your network running like it should long after the initial set up.

1. Check resale and surplus sources for budget-friendly gear. Looking for deep discounts? You might also find quality equipment through GovDeals, local tech surplus stores or even business liquidations and thrift stores. Just check that the equipment isn’t too outdated to receive firmware updates or support your current bandwidth needs.
   
2. Prioritize wired connections where possible. Wired Ethernet is faster, more secure and often more affordable than WiFi in the long run. If you can hardwire key devices (like desktop computers, printers or security systems), you may need fewer wireless access points, which can significantly reduce equipment costs.
   
3. Choose scalable, modular systems. Investing in business-grade equipment that supports VLANs, QoS and future expansion means you won’t have to start from scratch as your business grows. Look for devices with extra ports or add-on capabilities, even if you don’t need them all today. This approach can help you save money (and avoid frustration) later on.
   
4. Use cloud-based tools to reduce hardware needs. Storing files in the cloud or using cloud-based software can reduce your reliance on physical storage devices like servers or NAS systems. This can simplify your setup and reduce maintenance costs.
   
5. Take advantage of managed service plans with low or no upfront fees. Some professional network services, such as EPB Smart Net Plus for Business include business-grade equipment, installation and ongoing support in a single affordable monthly rate, helping you avoid large upfront costs. These plans can be especially helpful for small businesses that want a hands-off, secure solution.

Whether you’re working with a tight startup budget or just looking to spend smarter, these tips can help you stretch your dollars and build a network that’s ready for the future.

1. Is it cheaper to set up a network myself?
   It can be, especially if you’re tech-savvy and have a small team. But DIY comes with risks, since mistakes in setup can lead to security issues, connectivity problems or costly troubleshooting later. If you’re unsure, hiring a professional may save you money and stress in the long run. Check with your local provider to compare installation and subscription fees with how much it’ll cost you to purchase your own equipment.
   
2. How often will I need to replace my network equipment?
   Most routers, switches and access points last three to five years. Higher-end gear may last longer with regular maintenance and firmware updates. Plan for gradual replacement over time so you don’t face a large, unexpected bill. It may be helpful to set periodic reminders on your calendar for equipment upgrades.
   
3. What ongoing costs should I expect?
   Budget at least a few hundred dollars per year for things like software licenses, antivirus protection, cloud backups, network monitoring tools and potential hardware upgrades. If you use managed IT services, expect to pay $100–$300/month depending on your needs.
   
4. Can I scale my network later without redoing everything?
   Yes, as long as you choose modular, business-grade equipment that supports expansion. Features like VLANs, extra ports and scalable wireless systems make it easier to grow without starting from scratch.

• Invest in quality equipment and expert support where it counts. The cheapest option isn’t always the most cost-effective, especially if downtime or data loss could impact your operations.
  
• Think scalable. Choose hardware and tools that can grow with your business, so you’re not stuck rebuilding your network as your team expands.

Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading your current setup, taking the time to plan (and budget) your network properly will pay off in performance, security and peace of mind.

If your business is located in the Chattanooga area, you can simplify your setup and avoid large upfront costs with EPB Smart Net Plus for Business. Our award-winning connectivity experts will design and install a custom, scalable WiFi solution to meet your needs with world-class networking equipment and local, ongoing technical support starting at just $25 per month. Learn more.