An office move is a chance to fix old habits. Rebuild the network rather than copying it, track every device, control keys and badges, set a visitor process, and dispose of old equipment properly. Do not carry unknown rules and forgotten cables into the new space.
Network rebuild
- Start from default deny. Rebuild firewall rules from what is needed, not by copying the old list.
- Change every default password on routers, switches, access points, printers and cameras. Update their firmware before connecting them to anything important.
- Separate networks: staff, guests, and devices such as printers, cameras and door controllers. Guests should never share a network with company laptops.
- Strong wireless settings. Current encryption standard, a long passphrase or certificate based sign in for staff, and a separate guest network with an isolated setting.
- Document the layout and who can change it.
People and access
- Badges and keys: list who has them, issue new ones, and collect old ones. Check for ex staff and contractors.
- Server and network closet locked, with a log of who enters.
- Alarm codes and door codes changed at handover and when staff leave.
- Visitor process: sign in, badge, escort for sensitive areas. Visitors do not plug into the staff network.
- Clear desk basics: lock screens, lock away laptops overnight, shred paper with sensitive data.
Moving the equipment
- Inventory every device before and after the move, and reconcile the lists. Missing items are found on day one, not months later.
- Move servers and storage under a named owner, ideally with sealed containers and a handover record.
- Keep backups off site and test them before the move, in case something is damaged in transit.
- Do not label crates with detail that tells passersby what they hold.
Disposal of old equipment
Wipe or physically destroy drives from old computers, printers and servers, and keep the certificate from the vendor. Printers and copiers have storage too. Also clear whiteboards and walls and check for documents left in drawers.
Move day and after
Set a person on each side to check items in and out. After the move, scan the new network for unexpected devices, run a Wi Fi check from outside the building, and confirm cameras and badge readers are working. Update your emergency plan with new addresses and meeting points.
Remember the temporary phase. During a move there is often a week with two offices, a mess of cables, contractors in the building and tired staff. Limit who has access to the new space during fit out, record who is given keys, and lock up equipment each night. Most thefts and mix ups happen in the gaps between old and new.
Quick check
Should we reuse the old firewall rules?
Review them one by one. Most old rule sets contain rules nobody can explain, and those should be dropped.
Do printers need wiping?
Yes. Many store documents on internal drives.
Last reviewed: 19 October 2026.
