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06/24/25

Why Your Home Network Matters More Than Ever 

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In today’s connected home, the quality of your network is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s the critical foundation for home automation systems, security cameras, and well… for everything.

Your home network must handle far more than basic internet browsing. From streaming 4K content to controlling home security systems, smart lighting, automated shades, and home theater systems, your network is working overtime. Yet many Maine homeowners still rely on outdated networking equipment that wasn’t designed for modern smart home installations.

At Atlantic AV, Maine’s trusted home automation company, we’ve seen how poorly designed networks create connectivity issues, dead zones, and costly service calls that a professional network installation could have prevented.

Why “Good Enough” Isn’t Good Anymore 

Most Maine homeowners don’t realize that even new construction often uses Cat 5e cable—a 20-year-old standard. While technically supporting gigabit speeds, it’s inadequate for homes with fiber internet and demanding smart home systems.

Home security cameras, multi-room audio systems, home theater installations, and home automation platforms like Control4 require high-bandwidth, low-latency connections. Add remote work, gaming, and family streaming, and network bottlenecks become inevitable.

Wi-Fi extenders might seem like quick fixes, but they don’t address the core issue: you need a professional network infrastructure with a hardwired backbone for reliable smart home performance.

What We Recommend 

When we’re brought in during a new build or home renovation, Atlantic AV works with homeowners and builders to install a “bundled wire package.” This typically includes:

  • Cat 6A cabling for high-speed data (futureproofed for 10Gbps+)
  • Speaker wire for in-wall audio systems and outdoor sound systems
  • Coax cabling for video sources or backup applications
  • Fiber optic runs for ultra-high-speed connections
  • Strategic access point locations for optimal wireless coverage

This hidden infrastructure makes the difference between frustrating connectivity issues and seamless smart home automation.

Professional Network Design: Wired vs. Wireless

A strong Wi-Fi signal is important, but a solid wired foundation is key to good wireless performance. Wireless access points (WAPs) connected via Ethernet cabling to your main network switch perform far better than plug-in extenders or mesh repeaters. You get faster speeds, lower latency, and better coverage—especially in large homes or homes with thick walls.

Atlantic AV installs enterprise-grade networking equipment from trusted brands like Araknis or Luxul, offering:

  • Centralized networking monitoring
  • Remote diagnostics for proactive support
  • Automated security updates and monitoring

The Real Cost of Poor Network Infrastructure

Inadequate home networking in Maine smart homes leads to:

  • Dropped video calls and buffering streaming services
  • Unresponsive smart devices and home automation failures
  • Lagging security camera feeds compromising home security
  • Connectivity frustration when multiple devices are online

Your smart home should enhance your lifestyle—not create daily frustrations. Professional network installation is one of the smartest investments for Maine homeowners.

What to Expect from Atlantic AV’s Network Installation Service

Atlantic AV doesn’t just install equipment—we provide complete smart home networking solutions:

  • Custom network design for your home’s layout and internet service
  • Professional installation of all wiring and networking devices
  • Complete system testing and performance optimization
  • Ongoing network monitoring to prevent issues before they affect you

Our proactive monitoring service often alerts us to network issues before you notice them—enabling immediate resolution and uninterrupted smart home performance.

Build Your Maine Smart Home Network Right the First Time

Just as you wouldn’t compromise on your home’s foundation, your network infrastructure deserves professional attention. Whether you’re building new, renovating, or upgrading your current smart home systems, Atlantic AV can help.

Professional network design and installation create the invisible foundation that makes home automation, security systems, and smart home technology work flawlessly.


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