The Computer Equipment You Need to Work From Home

You don’t need to break the bank buying equipment if you’re going to be working from home, but there are a few pieces of computer equipment you need to work from home. The thing to keep in mind as you work through this list is the requirements of your job.

Computer Requirements for Work-From-Home Jobs

Probably the most important piece of equipment you’ll need is a computer. Unless the company you’re working with provides a system for you, you should keep in mind the computer specs you’ll need to meet your specific job requirements.

For example, if your company requires remote workers to use a Windows computer but you go out and buy a Mac, you might find you can’t function the way you need to. You could use an option like Boot Camp to get Windows on your Mac computer, but keep in mind that may eat up a lot of the required resources you’ll need to get your job done.

Also consider whether or not a laptop can get the job done for you just as well. If you're not on a ton of calls, that gives you the freedom to head outside or even to a local coffee shop for the occasional change of scenery.

Not all laptops can handle heavy loads, though, so you really need to carefully consider your specific needs before you plunk down any cash. Chromebooks, for example, are bare-bones, cloud-based laptops while an HP ZBook Firefly offers tons of internal storage, the latest processor, and can be connected to a 5G network.

High-Speed Internet With Sufficient Speed to Support Your Needs

You may not think of high-speed internet as an equipment requirement, but it is. You’ll likely need to have a modem and a router (or buy a device that combines both) that meet the specifications laid out by your company.

Some companies prefer that home-based employees have hard-wired internet vs. Wi-Fi. That requires very different equipment than wireless internet. Take your time to research and choose the very best internet service provider in your area so you aren't dropping off during video calls or losing connections at critical moments.

You Might Actually Need a Landline Phone

Most jobs don’t require that work from home employees have a landline telephone anymore, but there are some that do. If you’re working as part of a customer or tech support team, for example, you’ll probably need a landline phone, but those aren’t the only jobs for which that may be a requirement.

If you are required to have a landline, keep in mind that you probably can’t use a software-based phone like Skype or Google Voice. While technology has improved dramatically, some companies still don’t have faith they will perform as they should.

If that’s the case, check with your internet service provider, since they will likely be responsible for your landline phone, too. Most ISPs provide pricing bundles that can reduce your price for adding a landline number to the mix. You’ll still have to buy the telephone, but you can purchase inexpensive cordless phones online or at a local retailer.

A Noise-Canceling Telephone or Computer Headset With a Microphone

Chances are very good that you're going to have one of two circumstances arise that create the need for a good headset with a microphone. You're going to need to make and receive calls, whether on the phone or through an internet communication service.

You might also find yourself in a situation where you need to block out the world. That's why investing in a good noise-canceling headset can be essential to getting your work done. Bluetooth headsets are very easy to set up, so don't let that keep you from trying it out.

You May Need an External Webcam

Some computers don't have built-in webcams or you may have a webcam that doesn't work. Either way, you can purchase an external webcam that plugs into a USB port on your computer.

There are different important features to look for in a webcam so they can run from inexpensive to pretty spendy, depending on which features you choose. In most cases, a middle-of-the-road webcam will do everything you need it to do, unless there is a critical reason you really need to connect in high definition.

Paper Still Rules: You'll Need a Printer and Scanner

We still live in a world where paper often rules, which means it's likely that you'll need to invest in a printer or printer/scanner combo if you're not provided one by the company you work for. There are numerous inexpensive models on the market now, and if you don't need to print in color; buying a black and white printer can reduce the cost even more.

Peripherals such as USB Hub, Wireless Keyboard & Mouse (and more)

Peripherals are sometimes hard to decide on, but if you're in the market to add to the capabilities of your setup, a wireless keyboard and mouse are a good investment. And while you're at it, consider pairing them with an extended mouse pad for some wiggle room.

These allow more freedom of movement and are often far more convenient to use than their wired counterparts. Just keep in mind that the wireless variety use batteries, which you should dispose of properly.

In addition, there are a few other peripherals that may be useful as you try to carry out your normal workday:

1. A battery backup unit so you can keep working in the event of a power outage.
2. A USB hub to help manage all the various devices you're using with your computer. Here are our recommendations for the best USB hubs.
3. An external hard drive to provide plenty of storage for all your work.
4. A flash drive for portable storage if you're moving between your home office and a more traditional work location.
5. A second monitor to help you gain up to 50 percent more in productivity.

Once you're all set up, you can work confidently and effectively from home. You've got this!