Would a simple, low cost system meet my needs?
Unless you require a highly structured, very formal system with
extremely high throughput, a peer-to-peer system is likely to be
more than adequate. They’re used successfully in small offices of
all types, from attorneys and architects to graphic art design.
We install wired
Ethernet connections with transfer rates of 100 megabits per second,
which is why we prefer them over wireless. Although much
slower, wireless connections are more than adequate for Internet
sharing and most normal small or home office activities.
Back...
I have Macintosh and Windows systems. Can
you connect them all together?
Macintosh and Windows systems can be connected, but we currently do
not work with Macintosh computers.
Back...
Is a peer-to-peer network reliable?
Extremely. This type of network requires no dedicated system running
special software to operate, so it's very stable. Some of our
installations have required no network related maintenance in years
of daily use.
Wireless installations, though, can be a little finicky. If at all
possible, we recommend wired network systems.
Back...
What about security?
If you have a highly competitive and potentially hostile work
environment, where sabotage and espionage are facts of life, a
peer-to-peer network is not your best choice, and we'd prefer not to
get involved.
Otherwise, a peer-to-peer network provides adequate security to
prevent casual snooping on the part of bored employees, cleaning
crews, or office visitors. If you have a broadband Internet
connection, our installation and configuration methods provide a
great deal of protection against online hackers.
Back...
Can I restrict Internet access to selected
users?
Sure. We can selectively enable or disable access to network
resources, including the Internet.
Back...
What additional equipment will I need?
Each computer must be equipped with a network interface card. If
there are more than two, you’ll also need at least one hub, switch,
or router. These things used to be expensive, but now they’re
downright cheap. Wired installations will require sufficient
amounts of cable to connect them.
As part of the installation, we’ll get all the parts required to set
it up.
Back...
Do you use name-brand components?
We use only name-brand components from suppliers such as Linksys,
D-Link, Seimens, and other well-known and respected manufacturers.
Back...
What about the network cable wiring?
Each office has its own requirements with regard to routing cables
for a wired network installation. We'll normally route network
cables along base-boards, under carpet, and through drop-tile
ceilings. If your specific set of circumstances dictates
invisibility, a wireless installation would be the most economical
alternative.
Back...
What about wireless?
We prefer working with wired installations, but if wireless is your
choice (whether by preference or necessity), we can handle that too,
including the extra steps required to secure your wireless
installation against outside access.
Back...
What are the maintenance expenses?
With a wired network, maintenance is practically zero. We have
systems that have never needed any network-related maintenance in
years of daily use.
Wireless systems, though, can be a little finicky. If at all
possible, we recommend wired network installations.
Back...
Can you repair or expand an existing
network?
Sure. Peer-to-peer networks installed in
small or home offices are reliable, low-maintenance, and require no
administration, but like all mechanical/electrical contrivances,
sometimes they just stop working. Because they require no
special software, a peer-to-peer network is usually relatively easy
to repair or expand.
Back...
How much does it cost?
This depends on the number of computers, how far apart they are, how
many shares and how much security you want.
Back...
How do I get started?
If you've not already done so, please review our
FAQ.
Then, for a no-cost
assessment, please use our
contact form.
Back... |
