Getting Connected
Hooking your computers together is nothing short of essential, unless you want to be passing CDs around forever. It’s also easy to do and requires comparatively little investment. Most clients never look back once they have all files stored in one location so everyone has access, software maintained centrally and the added advantage that a server can make it possible for you are your staff to work from home.
Which type of network is best for you?
There are basically two types of network arrangement, which you may also hear referred to as a ‘LANs’ or Local Area Networks:
Peer to Peer Networking
Computers are connected to each other so everyone on the network can see each others files. You can also connect a printer to the network for example, Peer-to-peer networks are simple and cheap to implement but their uses are limited. If you want to enable your employees to work away from the office effectively, need to transfer large amounts of data or are concerned about security then it’s worth considering a server-based network
Server Based Networks
With this type of network the server acts as the manager and central data store for your network. With this type of network you can:
Enable remote working securely
Manage the security of the network and make regular back-ups easily
Ensure the latest versions of important documents are available to everyone who needs them, all the time
Allow access to data for those who need it, and keep out those who don’t
Call Bronte Business Networks on 0121 506 9230 or email here to discuss your networking requirements.
Maintaining a server-based network
Investing in a server can make your business run much more effectively but some businesses are put-off by the extra IT know-how that is needed to maintain one. If you are unsure whether you want to deal with the maintenance of a server in-house there are other options available;
You can ‘rent’ a remote hosted server on a month-by-month basis. The upsides to this option include regular, predictable payments as well as the assurance that an IT expert - somewhere else - is looking after your network.
IT support packages are increasingly available which offer predictable costs and service to support your in-house network, so you can host your server in-house without needing in-house expertise
Of course, you can maintain your network in-house and if you are lucky enough to have an IT enthusiast on your team then this can be a great option. There are plenty of resources online to give support and guidance when needed.
Take a look at the Bronte network installation services and maintenance options.
Wired and Wireless Networks
PCs can be networked together by connecting them, plus any peripherals such as printers, to a hub/router, using Ethernet or ‘CAT-5’ cabling, along with some sort of firewall to protect your data. Nowadays, some live/work properties and offices have cabling built into the walls, making networking almost as simple as plugging in a phone.
If you don’t want to live with lots of cables and your property isn’t pre-wired a wireless network could be the option for you. The beauty of wireless networks of course is that you can connect anywhere within the range of the base station, without wires, making it a perfect choice if you use laptops of mobile devices regularly.
Wireless networks offer lots of advantages but must be set up correctly and used with care. Many people are unaware of is the fact that their wireless network transmits data across their immediate environment and that if this is not protected, anyone with the right equipment can connect and access their information. If you use an IT professional to set up your wireless network for you they will ensure safeguards are built in.
If you run a fairly small office or are based at home, you could also consider ‘plug-in’ network adapters which adapt your existing phone or electrical sockets to use as your cabling.
Backing up Your Data
Finally, one of the most crucial tasks a server can perform is to store and back-up data. You’ll need to make sure you have adequate storage for your companys’ specific needs. Be realistic about the amount of data you need to store - a photographic studio will need many times more data storage capacity than an accountancy practice for example. This data then needs to be backed up regularly, preferably on a daily basis.
Backups are vital in any organisation whether you have one or hundreds of users. Your data is your business; ask yourself what would happen if you lost it? A server can automate back-ups, giving you one less thing to worry about.
Networking is one of the first major IT investments for any small company, beyond buying their first PC’s. Be sure to take advice and specify what you want to achieve from your new purchase. The good news is servers and storage spaces are extremely versatile, capable of growing with your business, and are sure to repay their purchase value many times over across their lifetime.
Call Bronte Business Networks on 0121 506 9230 or email here to discuss your networking requirements.
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