Many companies are networking their computers
for a variety of reasons from telecommunications
too information sharing. As an increasing number
of companies require their computers to be able to
access a centralized server, different networking
technologies have been developed to meet this need.
If you are beginning to set up a network for your company
, you may be looking at the different options available and
trying to decide which is most cost-effective while still meeting
your needs at the same time.
There are two main types of computer networks that you can set up. The first uses wires to connect the computers and the second is a wireless network. There are advantages and disadvantages to each of these methods that you need to be aware of. Here is advice that you need to know in order to set up the right kind of network for your company.
Traditional wired networks
In the past, networks required the running of cables in order to connect the computers as well as a router that will allow those computers to connect to the internet. While this is not difficult to set up if you are trying to wire an entire office building it can be quite time consuming and expensive. For some companies that may not have a lot of money to spend, this can be prohibitive.
However, there are advantages to a traditional network that physically connects the computers to the router. They tend to be much more secure than a wireless network. Because the router does not broadcast an internet signal, there is no chance that someone will be able to crack the password and use the internet access for their own purposes.
The cables also allow a larger amount of data to be transferred and there is no chance that the signal will degrade or be lost the way it can with a wireless network. If data security and quality is critical to your company, a network that uses wires is your best choice.
Wireless networks
Many companies are moving away from a traditional network to one that does not need wires in order for computers to access the internet. A wireless network will use a router that is capable of transmitting a signal. A password is generally needed for computers to be able to access the signal that the router is putting out. It is important to protect the signal with a password otherwise it may be possible for people to use the signal to access the internet.
A wireless network is very flexible. If someone is moving around a building they are able to move their computer with them and still access the internet signal. The computer does need to be fitted with a device that allows them to pick up on the signal that is being transmitted, however and this can add to the cost of setting up a wireless network.
If you are trying to decide which kind of network you want to install, it can be helpful to contact a company that has experience in setting up both kinds. You can discuss what your needs are and they should be able to not only recommend the best kind for you but also identify the equipment that will be needed to set it up and get it working effectively.