Designing a Small Business Network

Any small business that has more than one computer should have a network. A network allows all computers to connect and share data between each other, share an internet connection and share peripherals such as printers and fax machines.

The average small business network will require devices to connect to each other and access the internet. While many businesses still use wired local area networks (LANs), wireless networks are becoming increasingly popular. However, many modern businesses combine the two. Based on this model, the primary features of the network should be as follows:

Wired Local Area Network (LAN) - This will connect all desktops, peripherals and servers. It's possible to make the connection via a hub. However, the best option is to use switches where information is only sent to the intended recipient on the network. Switches use MAC—hardware—addresses to identify where information should be sent. Because devices are connected by Ethernet cable, transfer speeds are generally very fast.

Secure wireless connectivity - Most modern businesses make use of wireless enabled devices such as laptops and PDAs so a wireless access point can be a valuable addition to any small business network. However, network administrators need to be aware of the security issues associated with wireless access points. In addition, transfer speeds over wireless will not match the high speeds of an Ethernet LAN.

Secure internet connection - All desktops in a small business should have access to the internet. This will allow access to the websites and email as well as allowing employees to access the network remotely. However, a secure network is essential for any small business so hackers can not access sensitive information. This can easily be taken care of by using a hardware firewall.

The basic structure of the network should include internet access via a cable/DSL modem. This should be routed through a dedicated firewall device that protects the network before connecting to the main switch.

The main switch is essentially the central point of the network. Not only does it provide a connection to the internet, it provides a point for all workstations, peripherals and the wireless access point to connect to. All servers should also be connected directly to the switch and should be backed up by a stand alone storage device to ensure that no information is lost in the event of an outage or other mishap.

This above is a general overview of a typical small business network. As wireless technology develops many small business are moving to wireless only networks. However, wireless networks will not match the speeds of a network using Ethernet cables.

 

Written by: Frank J Klein - CIO

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