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Networking, Explained (Part 1)

  • Writer: Grace @ Plugzio
    Grace @ Plugzio
  • 6 days ago
  • 5 min read

Wi-Fi, Cellular, Ethernet? What exactly do I need to know to ensure my devices are 100% connected and operational?


Connectivity is often the culprit behind offline EV chargers.


Sometimes it’s a quick fix - a simple,  network reboot. Restart the router, run a quick troubleshoot, and your devices are back online.


But more often than not, the issue runs deeper - tracing  back to poor network planning from the start. 


Weak signals, dead zones, interference, and network instability can quickly snowball into downtime, disrupted load balancing, lost revenue, and frustrated drivers, creating more complaints and support tickets for your team to manage.


Getting connectivity right from day one matters.


Plugzio works with you to design a setup that keeps chargers reliably online, so connectivity doesn’t become an ongoing operational headache.


  • In Part 1, we’ll break down the 3 primary connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Cellular and Ethernet)  and how to choose the right fit for your property.

  • In Part 2, we’ll cover the supporting accessories that help ensure long-term stability.


A quick overview  on connectivity options and Plugzio device compatibility:


  • Wi-Fi: Supports Plugzio L1, L2 and L3 devices

  • Cellular: Supports Plugzio L1, L2 and L3 devices

  • Ethernet: Supports Plugzio L2 and L3 devices only (L1 - Universal+ Smart Outlet not supported)

  1. Wi-Fi (Recommended for Cost & Scale)


Chargers connect wirelessly to a building’s existing Wi-Fi network or subnetwork.


Wi-Fi is the most common, cost-effective option for a range of deployments especially when a building already has network coverage in place.


It strikes a balance between cost and scalability, making it ideal for properties rolling out multiple chargers without the added expense of per device cellular plans or expensive ethernet cabling. 


When properly configured, it can reliably support L1, L2, and L3 charging on your property.

 

Best for: 

  • New builds or properties with existing Wi-Fi infrastructure

  • Medium to large scale deployments

  • Hybrid L1,L2,L3 EV strategies

  • Sites with IT/network support (proximity to electrical/communications room)

  • Properties looking to minimize ongoing connectivity costs



Pros:

  • Scalable: Support multiple EV chargers (8+ devices per extender) with flexible placement

  • Cost-efficient: Low upfront costs where coverage already exists, additionally low add-on networking accessories  (Modem, Wi-Fi extenders)

  • No recurring fees: Avoids per device cellular data costs

  • Flexible deployment: Easy to expand coverage with additional extenders or access points



Cons:

  • Signal reliability is dependent on building infrastructure: Concrete, underground parking and dense structures can create dead zones

  • May require additional IT involvement: Network configuration (subnetworks/ VLAN) optimization often required

  • Coverage gaps require hardware: Additional Wi-Fi extenders or access points may be needed to boost range and connectivity

  • Fallback limitations: Connectivity fallback may be a challenge when strong Wi-Fi signal is unavailable (L2 Artemis Devices)



Wi-Fi Setup Best Practices & Key Considerations


Validating Wi-Fi Coverage at Installation Points 

To ensure reliable performance, validate network strength before installation:

  • Signal Strength: Confirm RSSI of –65 dBm or higher at each stall

  • Frequency:  2.4 GHz only (No 5GHz, or mixed bands  ie.  2.4GHz + 5GHz)

  • Interference: Check for channel congestion or interference

  • Network Design: Avoid daisy‑chained Wi‑Fi extenders or switches

  • Capacity Planning: Ensure access points and extenders are not overloaded with devices

Key Considerations During Wi-Fi Commissioning: SSID Setup

A poorly configured network at install = long-term connectivity instability.

  • By default during setup - the device connects to temporary credentials 

    • SSID/Network name: Plugzio

    • Password: WelcomePlugzio

  • ⚠️For security and long-term performance, you’ll need to transition the device to your secure network by assigning a custom SSID and password, and ensuring a stable DHCP pool with available leases (at least 20%).

    • This step is more than just a credential update, it’s critical to ensuring reliable connectivity. 


For additional network configuration assistance, connect with the Plugzio IT Support team here.



  1. Cellular (Recommended for Small-Scale & Outdoor Installations)


Chargers connect via a 4G LTE SIM Card, using a public carrier network.


Cellular offers the fastest path to deployment - no wiring, no network setup and minimal coordination required.


It’s especially useful for sites where Wi-Fi is unavailable or unreliable, or where chargers are spread further apart.


Best for: 

  • Small scale deployments or pilot programs

  • Retrofits 

  • Outdoor or remote locations

  • Sites with no existing network infrastructure

  • Hybrid L1 & L2 EV strategies


Advantages:

  • Plug and play: Fast, easy plug-and-play deployment using SIM Card(s)

  • Flexible placement: Works well for dispersed chargers across a property

  • No additional on-site infrastructure required


Considerations:

  • Signal and Environment dependent: Connectivity can be impacted by poor reception (concrete, underground garages, surrounding builds with cell towers blocked)

  • Carrier outages: Reliant on external network availability and congestion

  • Recurring Costs: Recurring mobile/data fees (ie. $60~/year)  per device

  • Scaling Costs: Fees can add up for large scale deployments



  1. Ethernet (Recommended for Stable Connectivity) 


 A hardwired connection (copper/ fiber cable, Cat5e or better) that directly connects the charger to the building's network.


Ethernet delivers the most consistent, high-performance connectivity making it the gold standard for sites where uptime, reliability and long term scalability matters. 


While it can be costly, with more upfront planning and installation required -  Ethernet directly addresses many of the common connectivity issues seen with wireless setups.


For properties investing in high-power, high usage infrastructure, especially L2 and L3 DC fast charging), Ethernet is the reliable, go-to connectivity option.


Best for: 

  • Properties prioritizing uptime and reliability

  • L2 and L3 focused EV strategies

  • Sites with existing IT/network infrastructure

  • New builds where cabling can be planned upfront

  • High density charger deployments


Advantages:

  • Most reliable connection: Minimal signal loss, interference or drop offs

  • Consistent performance: Ideal for real-time data (payments, load management etc)

  • Stronger security:  Wired connections are secure and limit exposure to common Wi-Fi vulnerabilities (signal interception, unauthorized access etc)

  • Scales well: Supports dense cluster of chargers without bandwidth strain

  • Network flexibility: Ethernet ports offer flexibility to switch to Wi-Fi as fallback

  • No recurring connectivity fees: One time infrastructure investment


Considerations:


  • Complex, disruptive installation: Requires careful planning to route cables through existing infrastructure, often a disruptive process

  • Highest upfront cost: Cabling, trenching and installation can be expensive (especially for retrofits)

  • Not applicable for all setups: L1 devices/hybrid strategies unsupported


Managing Connectivity in Plugzio

Property managers and owners can monitor and manage connectivity across their entire fleet of EV chargers all from their Plugzio Management Dashboard.


From the Network Configuration tab, you can:

  • View real-time connectivity status of all devices

  • Add or update network settings

  • Test connections and troubleshoot issues

  • Remotely reboot devices as needed


Planning Your Connectivity with Plugzio


Your dedicated Plugzio Project Manager works with you to design a reliable connectivity plan tailored to your EV goals and (existing) infrastructure.


Whether you’re building new or retrofitting, we partner with your team to define:


  • Your EV strategy: 1, 3, and 5+ year goals (Revenue Generating, Revenue Neutral, or Strategic Amenity)

  • Charger requirements: Quantity and type, now and as you scale

  • Infrastructure planning: Power provisioning, network setup, and ethernet switch recommendations (if applicable)

  • Optimal placement: Charger locations based on site layout, power access and signal coverage


Get help with your Network Setup



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