Does Annex Brands recommend using wireless networks for computer systems?
Annex_Brands Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Each computer system must have at least the following hardware and software: Current Generation Dual or Quad Core (10th generation or higher), or Generation Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 (or iX-10-xxx or higher), or current Generation AMD Ryzen 5, 7, or Threadripper Processor (or equivalent), 16 gigabytes RAM, 256 Gig solid state drive (SSD) or 500 Gig hard drive, 256 MB or more video card with dual video connection, gigabyte Ethernet card with RJ-45 connection, about 11 ports (the number and type of ports depend on the number and type of attached devices), a multicard reader (reads digital camera memory cards), 22" flat LCD monitor, Windows USB keyboard, 2-button mouse, thermal receipt printer, label printer, Dymo 450 label printer (used for printable postage interface software), cash drawer, 150-lb certifiable electronic scale, bar code reader, HP laser printer or its equivalent, merchant service terminals (used for debit and credit card processing that integrates with PostalMate POS network software), and Windows 10 or 11 Professional operating system. If required in your state, you also may need a pole display. If you are in Florida or Texas, you also will need digital fingerprinting computer equipment and software. If you use more than 1 computer system, each computer system must be linked or networked and you will need a router or switch capable of 1000 MBPS and 1000 Base T network cabling (CAT 5e/6/7.) We do not recommend wireless networks. You may obtain your computer hardware from any supplier. We may assist you in obtaining your computer hardware, but we are not required to do so.
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 45–62)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 FDD, Annex Brands does not recommend using wireless networks for its computer systems. The FDD specifies that if a franchisee uses more than one computer system, each system must be linked or networked using a router or switch capable of 1000 MBPS and 1000 Base T network cabling (CAT 5e/6/7). This requirement indicates a preference for wired network connections over wireless ones.
For a prospective franchisee, this means that they should plan to set up a wired network infrastructure within their retail center. This may involve additional costs for cabling and network hardware. While the FDD does not explicitly prohibit wireless networks, the recommendation against them suggests that Annex Brands believes wired networks offer greater reliability and security for their point-of-sale (POS) systems and other business-critical applications.
It is important for potential franchisees to discuss the reasons behind this recommendation with Annex Brands during their due diligence. Understanding the specific concerns about wireless networks will help franchisees make informed decisions about their IT infrastructure and ensure compliance with Annex Brands's standards. Franchisees should also inquire whether any exceptions to this recommendation are possible under certain circumstances, and what the implications of using a wireless network might be in terms of support and security.