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Setting up a computer network is a fast and reliable way of sharing information and resources within a business. It can help you make the most of your IT systems and equipment.

Advantages of computer networking

The main benefits of networks include:

• File sharing - you can easily share data between different users, or access it remotely if you keep it on other connected devices.
• Resource sharing - using network-connected peripheral devices like printers, scanners and copiers, or sharing software between multiple users, saves money.
• Sharing a single internet connection - it is cost-efficient and can help protect your systems if you properly secure the network.
• Increasing storage capacity - you can access files and multimedia, such as images and music, which you store remotely on other machines or network-attached storage devices.

Networking computers can also help you improve communication, so that:

• staff, suppliers and customers can share information and get in touch more easily
• your business can become more efficient - eg networked access to a common database can avoid the same data being keyed multiple times, saving time and preventing errors
• staff can deal with queries and deliver a better standard of service as a result of sharing customer data

Cost benefits of computer networking

Storing information in one centralised database can also help you reduce costs and drive efficiency. For example:

• staff can deal with more customers in less time since they have shared access to customer and product databases
• you can centralise network administration, meaning less IT 91香蕉黄色视频 is required
• you can cut costs through sharing of peripherals and internet access

You can reduce errors and improve consistency by having all staff work from a single source of information. This way, you can make standard versions of manuals and directories available to them, and back up data from a single point on a scheduled basis, ensuring consistency.

Read more about the pros and cons of wireless networking.

Many businesses start off with a computer network confined to a single building. This type of network is called a local area network (LAN). There are two common kinds of LAN: peer-to-peer and client/server.

Peer-to-peer office networks

Peer-to-peer networks connect two or more computers directly, allowing them to share files or programs. They are particularly suitable for collaborative work. They are also relatively cheap and straightforward to create.

However, peer-to-peer networks have several downsides. They can be much slower than server-based networks and unsuitable for very complex networks. Also, since peer-to-peer systems connect users through other users' computers, a failure at one point in the network will affect every computer connected to that network.

Client/server networks

Client/server networks use one computer as a server - where you keep shared files and programs - which other PCs connect to. This central machine can be a normal PC, although it is best to use a powerful computer or a purpose-built server computer.

Client/server networks have several advantages. As files are stored centrally, these systems are:

• more efficient at backing up and handling data - eg users cannot modify files simultaneously
• capable of linking to different types of computers - they can 91香蕉黄色视频 more users more reliably than a peer-to-peer network

Unlike peer-to-peer systems, a failure at a single point in a client/server network will not affect other computers on the network, as long as the server remains intact.

Wired or wireless networks?

Wireless networking technology can replace all, or some, of the cabling requirements for a network. It offers:

• greater flexibility around the location of your IT equipment
• less health and safety hazards in the workplace, with fewer cables around
• access to Wi-Fi within your premises for visitors

However, depending on the layout of your office, wireless signals can be slower and less reliable than cable connections. In some situations, wired networking can be a more reliable, affordable option for your business than wireless networking.

As your business develops, you may need to consider more advanced computer networking set-ups, such as wide area networks, virtual private networks, intranets and extranets.

Each of these networks offer different business benefits, such as:

• linking together systems in different offices
• allowing remote workers to access your office systems securely
• providing up-to-date information for your staff and business partners

WANs

Wide area networks or WANs serve companies with offices at different locations. The WAN connects different local area networks together into a more complex network. You will need to use client/server networks, based around central server computers, to connect the various servers over a telecommunications network. WANs use cables/lines that you lease from a telecoms company.

VPNs

A virtual private network or VPN allows the user to connect across the internet to the business' private network. It creates a secure link between the remote worker's computer and the central system. A VPN can be cheaper to use than leased lines or domestic-type broadband connections.

Intranets and extranets

Many businesses build internal networks (more commonly known as an intranet) to store information on a central system at a private internet address, accessible only by their employees. Read about the benefits of an intranet.

Businesses can also open up certain areas of their intranets to partners, such as suppliers and customers, typically with a password. This is an extranet. For example, a business can let clients track the progress of their orders, and the payment of suppliers online can be linked directly to the business accounts system. See more on the benefits of an extranet.

Cloud networks

Another networking option is a public or private cloud. A cloud network can provide your core business applications and secure, remote access to them.

Public cloud-based applications or services are typically shared between multiple organisations. Benefits of public cloud networks include easy and cost-efficient set up, scalability and no wasted resources since you pay for only what you use. However, the downsides can include data security and privacy, as well as restrictions on how your business can use or customise the applications in the shared environment.

A private cloud is similar to a public cloud network, except only your organisation is able to use or control the applications or services in the cloud. For more information, see cloud computing.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to networking. You will need to carefully consider your networking requirements to decide what type of network can best meet your business needs.

When assessing your requirements, think about:

• the data you need to communicate, and how you are currently doing this
• what do you want the new networking system to do
• if new technologies could boost your efficiency or provide new business opportunities

It may help to express your requirements in business terms, rather than computer terms. For example, you might consider the value remote workers can provide customers by having immediate access to stock levels.

Define your network requirements

To assess and define your requirements, consider the following:

Your business processes

Do any of your processes or working practices depend on producing or accessing information? Could you benefit from storing this centrally?

Your existing equipment

An audit will allow you to take stock of your inventory and determine if you need to invest in new components for the network.

Network users

Consider how many people will use the network - staff, suppliers and customers.

Peripherals

Assess how you will use peripheral equipment, such as printers, scanners and copiers, and what would be the best locations for them.

Your budget

Set a budget and calculate costs. Include purchase, installation, 91香蕉黄色视频, maintenance and training as well as loss of business due to staff involvement.

Potential savings

Consider what savings you could achieve - for example through replacing manual and paper-based processes, reducing hardware costs by sharing facilities, and capital allowances.

Your future computing requirements

Think about your business plans and how your business may change in the future. For example, if your business is likely to take on more staff, your network will need to be scalable.

When determining your needs, you must also consider any network security issues. This may involve:

• deciding who will use the network
• identifying what access controls you will require, such as passwords
• devising regular backup procedures for your data - eg in case your system crashes

Looking at the problems and opportunities in a structured way will give you a better idea of which technologies might be appropriate. It will also enable you to understand the data transmission capacity - often referred to as bandwidth - each part of the network will need.

Analyse the technology options

Research the available technology through networking suppliers' websites, special exhibitions, or networking magazines - these often include features on the latest developments. To help you select a suitable product:

• prepare a shortlist of products from different vendors
• talk to people who use these products or read magazine reviews
• consider the 91香蕉黄色视频 facilities for each solution

You may want to use professional help when choosing a networking solution. Consultants or networking contractors can help you to analyse your needs and understand the costs involved in addressing them.

Businesses in Northern Ireland can get practical ICT advice from .

For your network to benefit your business, you must run it effectively. You must also carefully plan how you will maintain and develop it. Here are some best practices for your network administration, 91香蕉黄色视频 and maintenance.

Appoint a network administrator

For a small network, it is worth appointing a network administrator and 91香蕉黄色视频ing that person with additional training. Ideally, the administrator would have some technical knowledge, but you can bring in expertise where necessary - although this can be costly. Choose someone who is methodical and good at keeping records and monitoring tasks.

The administrator's basic responsibilities include:

• security, including password monitoring
• disaster recovery planning

As the network grows the network administrator will need further training. At this point, you will need their expertise to also cover the installation, configuration and maintenance of PCs, networking equipment and network operating systems.

It is a good idea to define exactly what type of emergency 91香蕉黄色视频 and after-sales services your technology providers should supply, as they can be an important point of contact for any queries or problems you may have. If they cannot provide these services, consider another supplier who can. Find out how to choose an IT supplier for your business.

Network maintenance and compatibility

You also need to maintain your network. You'll need to monitor software compatibility. This doesn't necessarily mean automatically getting the latest software release available. Compatibility needs to extend across the network, so you should carefully plan and budget for an upgrade strategy.

Make rules for file naming to ensure that changes take place to the right files at the right time. Multiple file copies will be created as employees download central files to work on whilst off-site and upload them later. Naming rules prevent overwriting of any changes made to the original files.

When businesses connect their systems and computers, one user's problems may affect everyone on the network. Despite the many benefits of using networks, networking raises a greater potential for security issues such as:

• data loss
• security breaches
• malicious attacks, such as hacking and viruses

You can implement measures to reduce your network's vulnerability to unauthorised access or damage. It may not be possible, or economically practical, to eliminate all vulnerabilities, so performing an IT risk assessment is important in deciding what measures to implement.

Dealing with common network security issues

Typical preventive measures to help you avoid network security threats include:

• security devices such as firewalls and anti-virus/anti-malware software
• security settings in the router or the operating system
• patch management to ensure firmware and software is updated regularly
• data encryption systems for sensitive data
• data backup, including the use of off-site backup
• restricting access to the network infrastructure to authorised personnel only
• training staff in the safe and secure use of the equipment

As well as training staff, you should also implement policies and rules for computer use in the workplace. You should let your staff know that misuse of networked equipment can be regarded as misconduct and may result in disciplinary action.

Find sample IT policies, disclaimers and notices for your business.

Importance of regular network administration and housekeeping

Regular maintenance of your computer network is an essential part of keeping your systems running smoothly and securely. Redundant data, disused software, forgotten mailboxes and remains of old updates can slow down your network system, potentially causing efficiency and productivity issues for your business.

It is important to ensure data security through regular housekeeping such as:

• backing up files
• password routines
• system logs
• removing access from employees who leave

As your data will be stored in one location on the server, physical security is also very important. Find out more about server security.

Virtual private networks (VPN) security

If your staff need to access the network while off-site, consider a virtual private network. This creates a secure link and protects information sent and received. Find out more about advanced computer networks: intranets, extranets and VPNs.

Whichever technology solution you select, security should be a priority. If you're unsure how to proceed, seek expert advice from your internet service provider, system provider, installer or adviser. You may also want to read more about cyber security for business.