Choose networking equipment for your business
About networking equipment
A properly installed network is essential for creating a reliable connection between your point of sale devices and other hardware. You can reference the recommended Ubiquiti UniFi networking equipment below for seamless connection with your Square devices, based on your business size.
Before you begin
Prevent network issues
Follow these best practices to minimize network disruptions and maintain reliable operations.
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Hardware best practices
Use only Square-provided cables
Keep hardware away from high electrical noise sources - use separate power outlets from appliances like microwaves and blenders
Protect hardware from liquids and extreme sunlight
Ensure cables are not bent
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For printers:
Use the appropriate printer type for your needs (receipt vs. kitchen ticket printing)
Connect via USB or Ethernet instead of Bluetooth or Wi-Fi
Replace devices after several years (including older printers or Bluetooth
printers)
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Network setup best practices
Use commercial-grade networking gear
Prefer USB or Ethernet connections over Wi-Fi where possible
Configure wireless access points for optimal coverage
Maintain a backup connection (e.g., cellular MiFi, Square Reader for contactless and chip, or Square Reader for magstripe connected to your phone)
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Prepare for service interruptions
Enable offline payments and configure settings to your preferences
Sign up for outage notifications in your Dashboard Settings
Bookmark issquareup.com for service status updates
Learn how to run network connectivity tests from both Dashboard and POS (Device Management in Settings)
Share the offline payments guide with employees (find in Process offline payments)
The information below highlights common needs of Square sellers, but doesn’t cover all needs. If your needs are not represented in this article, consult with a third-party networking specialist to design your network.
Beyond what is available in Square Shop, a broad array of equipment options for all types and size of businesses are also available through our preferred networking equipment partner, Ubiquiti.
All Ubiquiti UniFi products are covered under the UniFi 2-year Limited Warranty.
Choose networking equipment for your business
Micro or mobile businesses generally have two to three Square devices and are around 60-120 square feet. Devices include Square POS, printer, phones, and laptops.
Recommended hardware:
- Router: UniFi Express
- Switch: USW Flex Mini
Note: Separate Access Points are generally not required, as the UniFi Express device acts as a dual router and access point.
Small-sized businesses generally have one to five Square devices and are less than 3,000 square feet. Devices include Square POS, printer, as well as speakers, security equipment, or staff phones and laptops.
Recommended hardware:
- Router: UCG Cloud Gateway Ultra
- Switch: USW Lite 16 PoE
- Access Points: UniFi U6+ for indoor use, or UniFi U6 Mesh for outdoor use.
Use one access point for every 1,000 square feet of coverage, assuming a square or rectangular single-floor area with drywall. If your area has a more complex shape, such as an L or H shape, or features a brick wall, increase the number of access points to improve coverage and signal strength.
Medium-sized businesses generally have five or more Square devices and are more than 3,000 square feet. Devices include Square POS, printer, as well as speakers, security equipment, guest Wi-Fi, staff phones and laptops, or smart devices.
Recommended hardware:
- Router: Dream Machine Pro
- Switch: USW Pro 24 PoE
- Access Points: UniFi U6+ for indoor use, or UniFi U6 Mesh for outdoor use.
Use one access point for every 1,000 square feet of coverage, assuming a square or rectangular single-floor area with drywall. If your area has a more complex shape, such as an L or H shape, or features a brick wall, increase the number of access points to improve coverage and signal strength.