When preparing to open a restaurant or cafe in Japan, there are many things to handle—from lease contracts and interior design to kitchen equipment and menu development.
With so much to do, it's easy to push internet setup aside, thinking, "I'll just apply right before opening."
However, to prepare your POS system, ordering tablets, and reservation management services, you must check your internet environment as well. This is because bringing in the equipment and actually connecting and using it are two separate preparation steps.
What should you check before opening?
1. List all the devices that will use internet in your store
First, write down which devices you plan to connect.
- POS and sales management tablets
- Credit card and QR payment terminals
- Ordering tablets
- Reservation and supply ordering computers
- Devices for staff work
- Wi-Fi for customers
Each device may require different connection methods and conditions. Check with your vendor whether devices connect via Wi-Fi, require a wired connection, or have built-in cellular capability.
For example, AirRegi requires an internet connection, and certain features may be restricted if disconnected. It is essential to check the official guidelines for each service you use. AirRegi Official FAQ
2. Set your internet start date well before opening day
Opening day is not the only day you'll need internet.
You may need a connection for menu registration, order testing, payment terminal configuration, and staff training. Therefore, it is best to secure time to test-connect all devices before opening.
If you apply for fiber optic line installation, check the installation schedule and whether the building landlord approves the construction work. Preparing a backup method for temporary use in case internet activation is delayed will help your preparation go smoothly.
3. Construction-free home Wi-Fi is also an option
Home Wi-Fi routers that use cellular networks require no line installation construction—simply plug them into a power outlet.
Stores that cannot wait for line installation or want to avoid construction costs can consider this option.
However, just because a device connects to the internet does not mean it is compatible with all store systems. Always check with your POS, payment, and ordering system providers first to see if home Wi-Fi is supported and what network conditions are required.
Signal strength and speed may also vary depending on the building structure, installation location, and surrounding mobile signal environment.
4. Test the connection in your actual service space
Even if the connection is strong at the counter, conditions may differ in the kitchen or back of the store.
Before opening, test devices in the exact locations where they will be placed.
It is important to personally test the features you will use during business hours, such as loading menus, entering orders, and checking reservation details. For payment testing, follow the procedures guided by your payment device vendor.
If you plan to offer customer Wi-Fi, check whether it can be operated separately from your business network.
5. Establish a plan for internet outages
When preparing internet access, having a backup plan for outages is just as important as setting up a normal connection.
Check what offline features your POS and payment services support, and summarize the steps so staff members know how to respond.
Gathering vendor contact info, device models, and basic troubleshooting procedures in one place will be extremely helpful if sudden issues occur.
Unsure about internet for your store in Japan? Contact KEICALL
If you are looking for internet to use in your restaurant or cafe, consult with KEICALL.
Let us know your store location, intended use, and devices to connect, and you can inquire in Korean. If considering home Wi-Fi, please verify the plan conditions alongside your location's mobile reception and system network requirements.
👉 KEICALL Wi-Fi Plan Info
https://www.keicall.com/ko/plans/unlimited-wifi
👉 KakaoTalk Korean Customer Support
https://pf.kakao.com/_xoxdKeC/chat
While preparing your menu and interior, make sure to take care of your store's internet too. Setting aside time to test-connect real devices before opening will help ensure a smooth launch.
※ Network environments and device requirements vary. Please verify compatibility and connection conditions with your respective POS, payment, and ordering system providers.