This checklist is a simplified list of actions to optimize your local data network for Lightspeed Restaurant. Use this checklist to ensure that your local network is running as smoothly as possible.

This was created with the assumption that you have some experience or are comfortable with networking hardware and configuration. Any steps requiring advanced knowledge are flagged as such.

Choosing Your Hardware

1. Network Hardware
   • You can purchase supported network hardware directly from Lightspeed.
   • Use a dedicated router for Lightspeed POS devices, printers, and payment terminals.
   • Other recommended brands for networking hardware: UniFi, IgniteNet.
2. Printers
   • Use Ethernet cables to connect to your receipt and kitchen printers for reliability.
   • Avoid Wi-Fi or Bluetooth printers in environments with interference (for example, microwave ovens) or large physical barriers (for example, around corners or behind walls).
3. Payment Terminals
   • Consider using payment terminals with 4G capability for standalone payments in case of outages by your ISP (Internet Service Provider).

Setting Up Your Network

1. Physical Setup for Router
   • Place the router in an open, central, elevated area free from electronic interference and physical barriers.
   • Ensure ample airflow around the router.
   • Position the router close to Lightspeed devices for optimal internet speed and Wi-Fi strength.
2. Network Infrastructure
   
   • Connect LAN-based devices with an RJ45 (Ethernet) cable, Category 5 or higher.
   • (Advanced) Ensure POS devices have a minimum connection speed of 512 Kbps.
3. Wi-Fi Configuration
   • Set up a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
   • Use compatible encryption (WPA2-Enterprise, WPA2-Personal, WPA-Enterprise, or WPA-Personal).
4. Wi-Fi Strength
   • Add or move access points as necessary to improve coverage.
   • (Advanced) Test Wi-Fi coverage on each POS device during peak times; signal strength should be between -67dBm and -30dBm.
5. iOS / iPadOS Wi-Fi Settings
   • Under Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the blue (i) to bring up the settings for your connected network.
   • Make sure the settings are as follows:
     
     • Auto-join: Enabled
     • Low Data Mode: Disabled
     • Private Wi-Fi Address: Disabled
     • Limit IP Tracking: Disabled
     • Configure DNS: Manual (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4)

Network Configuration

1. Network Architecture
   • Use a dedicated network for POS devices and hardware.
   • (Advanced) Set up a VLAN or additional SSID if using an existing network.
   • (Advanced) Set up DHCP reservations for printers and payment terminals.
2. Firewall and Ports
   • (Advanced) Configure the firewall to allow open communication between devices and Lightspeed.
   • (Advanced) Open necessary network ports (22, 80, 443, 7373, 8080, 8883, 9140, 8443, 9100, 9880).
3. Domains and IP Addresses
   • Disable Wireless Isolation and similar features.
   • (Advanced) Whitelist traffic to/from *.ikentoo.com, *.lightspeed.app, *.adyen.com, *.adyenpayments.com.
4. Active and Passive POS Devices
   • Connect the active POS device directly to the router using an Ethernet adapter.
   • Ensure the active POS device remains connected and powered on during service.
   • Use passive devices for additional POS needs.
5. Flow of Data
   • Ensure active POS devices transmit data to the Back Office correctly.
   • Verify passive devices relay data effectively to the active device.
6. Other Considerations
   • Regularly update OS, software, firmware, and security tools.

Basic Troubleshooting for Network Issues

1. Initial Checks
   • Verify all devices are plugged in and turned on.
2. Further Steps
   • Ensure network cables are undamaged and properly connected.
   • Ensure Wi-Fi signal is strong and connected.
   • Check power and status lights on devices.
   • Confirm printers are plugged into the correct Ethernet ports.
   • Ensure all devices are on the same network as the printers.
   • Ensure all devices are updated to the latest versions of OS, software, and firmware.
3. Final Resort
   • Turn off all devices, wait 10 seconds, and turn them back on.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the original guide on Lightspeed's support page here.