All of Your Computer Networking Options for SMBs
We all know that communicating smoothly and keeping all of the tasks in sync is one of the most important things when running a small business. This is something that can be achieved by using one of the PCs to create a Local Area Network (LAN). By using an LAN, you will be able to connect all of the PCs in your office into a group. If you decide to do this, you should also know all of your options. Make sure you keep reading to find out more.
Wired and Wireless Networks
One of the most important decisions you will have to make when setting up your business network is choosing between a wired or wireless network. Even though wireless networks seem like a great option all the time, it’s important that you know wired networks are able to transfer larger amounts of data than wireless networks can. For this reason, wired networks are a more common pick among SMB owners. These are also a more reliable pick since here are no wireless interferences. Still, if you plan to use a lot of different types of devices such as tablets, smartphones and smart printers, you should also consider using a wireless network.
Dual-Band Routers
Having a business network also means there will have to be a router in your office. Picking the right router might not be as easy as it seems. Not all the routers are the same, and not opting for the right one will prevent your network from running smoothly. Dual-band routers are something you can never go wrong with. These routers can run on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band. Even though this does not mean your internet connection will be faster, it will operate much more smoothly. If you opt for these, you will also have to make sure all of your laptops support 5 GHz band. This can be done by opening Control Panel, clicking on Device Manager and finding out which Wi-Fi model a laptop has. Than you can look it up online and see if it supports this type of band.
Cabling Options
When it comes to cabling, there are also a few different options you can choose from. Cables today come in 4 major categories that you should know more about before you actually decide which of these you are going to get. These options include Cat 5, Cat 5e, Cat 6 and Cat 7 cables. The former two are a less expensive and more common option among SMB owners. Still, Cat 6 and Cat 7 offer you better quality and are guaranteed to be a must-have for every business in the near future. This is why data cabling experts recommend getting one of these two types of cables. In addition to this, you will also have to think about whether you want copper or fiber cables. Fiber cables are a better option for SMBs but they are also more expensive.
Network Switches
Getting a network switch is another absolute must when it comes to creating a big computer network. When getting one of these, you will be able to choose from $10 to $10,000 options. Of course, there will be no need for you to spend more money than you actually have. You should always think about how many PCs will be using your network and choose your switch accordingly. Your options include switches with 5, 8, 10, 24, and 48 ports, which means there is something for businesses of any size. You will also have to think about whether you need a fast network with low latency or you will be transferring large amounts of data. If your network will be used for internet and network resource access, you will be fine with 100 megabit ports.
Setting up a small business network surely requires a lot of thinking. Of course, you will first have to know what your business is going to need when it comes to your LAN, and choose between your options accordingly.
