Equipment Needed to Work From Home

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Equipment You’ll Need to Work From Home

I read this question a lot. “What kind of equipment do I need to work from home?” The answer to that question really depends on what type of job you’re wanting.

The majority of companies that hire remote employees for any type of customer service or technical support role usually have certain requirements.

Companies that hire independent contractors are more lenient. These companies usually allow you to use a laptop, or all-in-one computer, along with Wi-Fi. But in this post, I’m only going to discuss what companies that hire regular employees will require.

Each company has its own set of requirements, and they are usually listed somewhere in the job posting. It’s important to read the requirements carefully.

 

Workspace

This is important, and I can’t stress this enough. You won’t be able to sit at your kitchen table taking phone calls while your kids are blaring the Cartoon Network on TV in the next room.

Most companies are very strict when it comes to noise. They will require that you have a dedicated, quiet, distraction-free work area, with a door that can be closed and locked.

If you don’t have a desk with drawers that can be locked, then you’ll also need a small filing cabinet with lockable drawers.

Be aware that some companies will want a picture of your work area.

 

Internet Service

The majority of companies are going to require you to have high-speed, hard-wired internet service, either Cable or DSL. Hard-wired means that your computer is plugged directly into your modem.

If you have a router, you won’t be able to use your Wi-Fi through it. You also won’t be able to use any type of mobile hot spot or satellite internet.

They’ll also require fast upload and download speeds. Usually 5Mbps upload and at least 5Mbps download.

Some companies will require a speed test and will provide a link for it.

 

Dedicated Landline Phone

For many companies, you will need to have dedicated landline telephone service, either through your cable company or through a traditional telephone service provider like AT&T.

You won’t be allowed to use a cell phone, Google Voice, Magic Jack, Vonage, or VoIP.

Some companies do use VoIP. If they don’t mention in the job posting that they require you to have landline phone service, then more than likely they use VoIP, and they’ll let you know during the hiring process.

During your shift, you will be required to disable all features on your phone such as call waiting, and you won’t be allowed to make or receive any personal calls on that phone.

 

Telephone

If the company requires landline telephone service, then you’ll probably also be required to have a corded telephone, with a dial pad that isn’t on the handset.

Think about your typical office phone.

 

Headset

If you’re going to be doing any type of customer service or technical support via telephone, you’ll be required to have a headset.

The headset will need to be corded and noise-canceling, with a mute and volume button. You won’t be able to use a wireless headset.

A decent headset can cost anywhere from $35 up. Amazon, along with other online retailers have a good selection to choose from.

 

Computer

You’ll be required to have a newer desktop PC. Most companies use software that is only compatible with Windows operating system, so they don’t allow you to use a Macintosh. You won’t be able to use a laptop or all-in-one computer either. You’ll need to have a separate computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

I’ve seen several companies that require monitors to be 17” and some that require 22”. A few companies also require dual monitors. Again, all the requirements will be stated on the company’s website.

You’ll also need to have an updated browser, virus protection, and a firewall.

In some instances, you may need to have speakers and a sound card, and certain software like Microsoft Office.

If you happen to have a Macintosh instead of a PC, you can download Apple Boot Camp, which will install a Windows operating system on your Macintosh.

 

Webcam

Some companies will require employees to be on webcam during their shift, and many require it for training purposes and meetings.

Most computers now come with a webcam built-in, however, if your computer doesn’t have one, then you’ll need to purchase one.

 

Printer and Scanner

These aren’t necessarily required by most companies, however, there are a few that will. You can purchase an all-in-one printer, scanner, and copier for under $100 from several places.

 

Companies that Supply Equipment

If you don’t have a computer and aren’t able to purchase one right now, but still want to work from home, it’s ok, because there are a few companies that supply equipment. Just keep in mind you’ll still need to have internet and phone service.

 

• ABC Financial – Supplies all equipment.
• Allied Health Media – They provide a MacBook, monitor, keyboard, and a headset. They also provide $40 per month toward internet service.
• BroadPath Healthcare Solutions – They provide the equipment.
• Progressive -They provide all the equipment.
• Sticker Mule – They’ll pay for any hardware and software that you need.

 

Interested in More Companies That Supply Equipment?

If you are wanting to work from home, but don’t have a computer, you can see my full list of companies that supply equipment by going here.

 

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