Setting up Your Small Business Network

A computer network is something that you just can’t do without nowadays, making it possible to share resources. Computer networking can be described as a way of connecting several devices together, whether computers, printers or IoT devices. The rewards of PC networking are tremendous. You can connect to the Internet to check emails, update a site or teleconference. It’s also possible to communicate at the local level.

If you’re running a growing business, then you surely understand the importance of having a quality IT solution. It goes without saying that the computer network is the most effective IT solution. Getting a network up and running is a lot easier than it used to be owing to the improvement of technology and evolution of networking peripherals. The computer network is the heart of your business, which is the reason why you should learn how to set up one. Please continue reading and learn everything there is to know.

Identify your needs

Building a small office network is equal to laying the foundation of success. Prior to doing anything, it’s of necessary to determine what your needs are. You can’t just go to the store and purchase equipment. Take the time to analyze the situation. Get a pen and paper and ask yourself the following questions:

• How many devices will connect to the network?
• What application do staff members use?
• Do you need VPNs for remote workers?
• How much wireless coverage do you need?
• What kinds of mobile devices will connect to the network?

You can’t proceed until you find answers to all these questions. As you can imagine, getting answers isn’t as easy as asking questions. Identify your needs and move forward.

Opt for a wireless router

Small, as well as medium-sized enterprises, have decided to utilize wireless networking equipment. Why? You may ask. Well, besides the fact that equipment of this kind is much more affordable these days, it’s easier to set up and configure. Investing in a wireless router is the smart thing to do. What the power tool does is act like a bridge between the home network and the World Wide Web, enabling computers to share the same connection.

No matter what network you intend to build, get a Cisco wireless router. You aren’t oblivious to what is happening around you, so you’ve most certainly heard about Cisco. This company offers the most reliable and performing pieces of equipment. But what if you can’t afford to buy a new brand? After all, you’re a small enterprise. If you don’t have enough financial resources to buy new, then consider purchasing used. Used Cisco wireless routers are just as good as new ones. They go through thorough assessments, so you have guarantee that the product, even if pre-owned, is in perfect working condition.

In addition to what was mentioned earlier, it must be added that wireless power tools have embedded firewalls. This means that they provide protection against Internet-based threats, so there is no reason to worry about intrusion. The only thing you have to worry your head about is changing the administrator password. For a larger setup, it may be necessary to get more than one wireless router.

Other pieces of networking equipment you need

Di you really think that having a wireless router is enough? It’s important, but it’s not enough. In order to set up a small business network, you need several hardware pieces. Like what? when going shopping, make sure to include the following items on your list:

• Server – this device is dedicated to managing network resources. The server can reside on site or in the cloud.
• VPN – it’s a popular Internet security method, being used for private Web traffic.
• Wi-Fi – this technology is at the same time powerful and manageable. Numerous applications and devices support Wi-Fi.

Attention needs to be paid to the fact that these hardware pieces are available as standalone items or they are sold in bulk. Make sure that you get professional advice when acquiring networking gear.

Choose the right networking standard

The likelihood is that you don’t know what a networking standard is. What you need to know is that virtually all networking technologies have standards associated with them. And that there are two types of standards: formal and de facto. Simply put, networking standards are technical documents. If you’re not an expert, and you’re not, you won’t be able to read them. So, how are you supposed to choose the right networking standard?

The fact is that leading-edge routers and wireless devices (iPads, desktops) support the N mode. What happens when all the devices in your network support the N mode is that they offer maximum transfer rates. The N mode is way faster as compared to the fixed mode. In case you didn’t know, most home routers have settings to specify wireless N only. The same goes for business routers. If you can’t change the router settings, then upgrade to a newer device because the old one can slow down your entire operation.

Ensure your network is designed with reliability

Last but not least, it’s important to ensure that the small business network you’ve worked so hard to set up is dependable. At present, there is a great demand on business networks, perhaps more than ever. The more devices that you incorporate, the harder it will be for the network. You’ll want to make sure that your network is designed with reliability. Take into account the needs of your enterprise and guarantee that the network is capable of supporting it. As you know, there is always room for improvement. Should the network require optimization, do what needs to be done.

Optimization is synonym for performance, which is the reason why you immediately need to take measures. You’re a small business and you consequently need high functionality. Take advantage of existing servers and of any additional computing power, for that matter. If the business network is reliable, then you enjoy continuity. And you’re better able to recover from unforeseen circumstances.