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Most
small networks are designed in a “workgroup” or
“peer-to-peer” configuration.
 This type of network
allows users to share their data and devices for others
to access from the network neighborhood section of
Windows. Each user
 defines
their own access and security options for what they
share. It is a good way to backup data to more than one
spot and also reduces expenses like printers and related
supplies.
An
optional network server bring a lot of benefits and more
structure to a LAN. Servers have traditionally been
viewed as expensive and hard to manage, however in
recent years they have become very reasonable and low
maintenance assets to any network. Licensing can be
managed easily through the server allowing a company to
take full advantage of their technology investment.
 A
server allows an organization to create a domain for
user accounts and policies that define how the network
is used. They act as a reliable central point for data
storage and backup as well as sharing applications among
several users.
Servers can also be configured to allow a company to
manage their own services like web, email, and remote
access.
There are a lot of technology companies that can install a
LAN, but not many that put much consideration past the
immediate requirements. A system will evolve and grow
over time and at a minimum will change regularly as
users and devices come and go. Considerations such as
device names and address allocations need attention
during the design phase of any network installation. On
the surface it seems simple, but they are just a few
examples that will become major factors as the network
grows. KNS builds network design plans with the future
in mind, because adding a device or location to a system
is not the time to rebuild the network in order to
adjust. |
