Millions of Americans are trying to help slow the spread of the coronavirus by staying home as much as possible. That means hours and hours spent online trying to work and entertain yourself.
But it’s not all fun and games. Some companies are having employees work from home (WFH) to help flatten the curve of infection. If you think WFH sounds too distracting for you, there are things you can do to stay focused. Tap or click here for an extension that blocks distracting sites during the workday.
Another issue some people are running into is their home offices aren’t set up for work. If you need to optimize your workspace, you can get everything you need without having to leave the house.
First, stabilize your network connectivity
The first thing you need to successfully work from home is a reliable internet connection. If your home office isn’t near your router, you could have connectivity problems. That’s why you should think about installing a mesh network.
The routers sold by eero make up what’s called a “mesh network,” which means it’s composed of several “mini routers” that work in tandem to bring you fast, secure and stable internet connections.
Not only that, but eero’s systems are easy to set up, update automatically and include an array of top-notch security systems that encrypt your connection and keep your data secure.
Once installed, eero’s TrueMesh software begins learning from and optimizing your space, devices and network usage. That means every device gets a reliable connection all the time, everywhere in your home. Get free overnight shipping by visiting eero.com/Kim and use promo code Kim at checkout.
Now that you have a strong internet connection throughout your home, it’s time to create your office.
1. You’ll need a powerful PC
If you’re going to be working from home, you’ll definitely need a computer that can handle the load. This Dell Inspiron 3470 desktop PC will do the trick.
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It comes loaded with a 9th generation Intel Core i5 processor, 12GB DDR4 RAM and dual drives that include 1TB SATA HDD and a 128GB Solid State drive. You’ll also love its revolutionary design which saves space without compromising system performance.
2. Now for a great workstation
One way to help stay focused while working from home is to set up a workstation. Having a reliable computer desk is essential. Check out this Z-Line designs Cyrus workstation. Its contemporary style will look good in any room and has a nice cherry finish with black accents.
This desk is not only stylish but functional, too. It has a pull-out keyboard tray with room for a mouse.
3. Don’t forget the monitor
A great monitor is key to any desktop computer. This Dell P Series 23-inch screen LED-lit monitor will help you work in style.
With a thin profile and monitor base that’s nearly 22% smaller than its predecessor, you can free up valuable desk space. It’s also easy on the eyes with a flicker-free screen and ComfortView, a feature that reduces harmful blue light emissions. Perfect for those long workdays.
4. If a laptop is more your style
Maybe being tied to a desk all day isn’t quite your style. A laptop allows you to work from anywhere that you can get a Wi-Fi signal, including your patio.
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This HP laptop with a 14-inch screen is a nice option. It comes with an Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM, 128GB Solid State Drive and runs the Windows 10 operating system.
5. Always be comfortable
Now that you’re going to be spending several hours working from home every day, it’s important to have the most comfortable setup as possible. The best way to ensure comfort is with a great chair.
You’ll want to find an ergonomic office chair like this one from Smugdesk. The breathable mesh material on this swivel desk chair keeps your back and legs cool and comfortable at all times.
It also features an integrated lumbar pad, constructed from high-density foam that intuitively molds to the lower back, offering comfort while reducing pressure and pain. You can also take advantage of its pneumatic controls that make it easier to raise or lower the seat.
6. Great way to save money on ink
Working from home means you’re probably going to need to print more documents than normal. Instead of wasting money replacing ink cartridges with old-school printers, try this Epson EcoTank model.
The 2720 wireless color all-in-one Supertank printer with scanner and copier lets you kiss expensive ink cartridges goodbye. Wireless printing makes it easy to print from your iPad, iPhone, Android tablet and smartphone.
7. Go hands-free in your meetings
Most people working from home still have meetings with coworkers from time to time. If you want to go hands-free so you can easily take notes, try adding a Bluetooth earpiece to your system.
This New Bee Bluetooth earpiece offers a great wireless hands-free experience. It’s built with noise-canceling technology for a crystal clear listening experience.
8. If an earpiece isn’t your thing, try a headset
Not everyone is comfortable usinging an earpiece. Instead, give this Mpow pro Bluetooth headset a try.
These feature noise-canceling technology that eliminates up to 99.6% of transmitting noise for crystal clear calls and music. You’ll also love the all-day comfort with its balanced over-the-head design and memory foam padding.
9. Wireless mouse gives you the ultimate mobility
For the ultimate in mobility, you’ll want to add a wireless mouse to your system. This VicTsing wireless portable mouse is a nice choice.
This model features reliability, ease-of-use and comfort. You’ll have super-fast data transmission with no delay or dropouts. It even has a power-saving mode that turns the mouse off if it’s not used for eight minutes.
10. Simple way to protect all your gear
Now that you have all the tech you need to work from home, it’s time to think about protecting it from electrical surges. This AmazonBasics 12-outlet power strip surge protector will do the job.
A surge protector like this will protect sensitive electronic devices such as computers, TVs and more. This one comes with a 10-foot heavy-duty power cord, widely spaced outlets with sliding covers and a back keyhole wall mount.
That’s it, that’s the list. Pick up the essential items you need and you’ll have the perfect home office in no time.
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