A Guide to different types of networks

Businesses using more than one computer will most likely need a data network to share common files, databases, software and hardware, making the day-to-day running of the business more efficient and profitable.

The benefits of networks

• Computer users can save money by being able to share printers, scanners, external disks, tape drives and Internet access

• Businesses can have centralised databases which staff can access simultaneously

• Manuals, directories and contact lists can be made available to all, and be updated by everyone

• Staff can work on company files outside the office

• Network administration can be centralised

Three primary network models exist: Peer-to-Peer, Client/Server and Hosted Networks.

P2P Network

The Peer-to-Peer Network consists of PCs connected to one another via cables, without a central controller (a Server). This model allows PCs to share files and peripherals (for example printers). Performance can be severely affected by the use of large files, particularly graphics and multimedia.

What it can do:

• Data Sharing: Employees can share data to enhance collaboration.

• Peripherals Sharing: Computers can share peripherals, for example printers, scanners and modems, considerably cutting the cost of hardware requirements.

Client/Server Network

The Client/Server Network consists of PCs (Clients) linked through a powerful computer (Server). The Server is called upon by the ‘Client’ to deliver data and applications and acts as an administrative centre. Although this model involves the purchase of an “extra” computer it has many benefits, including support for large number of ‘Clients’, sharing of large files and scalability - offering minimal performance degradation as the network expands.

What it can do:

• Data Sharing: Employees can share data to enhance collaboration.

• Peripherals Sharing: Computers can share peripherals, for example printers, scanners and modems, considerably cutting the cost of hardware requirements.

• Distributed email: Employees can e-mail or discuss issues in real-time with each other as well as with customers and suppliers. They can also share calendars, arrange meetings or assign tasks to each other. The server manages the email system and access to emails can be controlled/restricted on a per user basis.

• Shared Internet Access: Only one line is required for shared Internet access by all the employees (e.g. Analogue, ISDN, ADSL or leased line) - this is a good way of saving communication costs! The server can also restrict the Internet access if required.

• Centralised data storage and back-up: Ideally, the server stores all the company data as it is the most reliable/robust machine on the network. Centralised and automated back-up system can also be set-up for safe and secure daily back-ups.

• Network Administration: The server controls the user accounts, password log-ins, and folder permissions.

• Desktop Faxing: The employees can receive/send faxes in an electronic version, saving time and paper!

• Remote Access from home / from another office using a VPN (Virtual private network)

Hosted Network

This provides organisations with remote connections to hosted servers, giving them all the functionality and flexibility of large corporate servers without the huge cost or continued overhead.

What it can do: • ALL the benefits of Client/Network, plus:

• Remote access from any computer in the world

• Reduced hardware requirement as virtually all of the processing is handled by the network as opposed to your computer, meaning that performance is significantly improved and relatively low specification machines can be used with negligible differences in performance.

• No software installations or upgrades since all Office tools are already on the network, and upgrades happen automatically.

• Automatic back-up system of all your data

• No maintenance on the server- which typically has to be replaced every 3-5 years

• More security with intra-day backups, clustered systems, real-time monitoring and high-octane hardware.

• Cheaper than an internal server due to the economies of scale of a large server farm

• No capital investment on a server. Typically, users pay just one predictable monthly fee.

There is no generic answer to which is the best network. The right option for any business will depend on its size, existing infrastructure, growth plans, budget and a host of other factors.