Wireless LAN (WLAN)
... a technology which enables two or more computers or devices to communicate, within a certain limited area, without the use of wires.
Why?
- Easily and securely add additional computers to your network without the hassel of new cabling
- Easily enable a secure internet connection for your customers or guests, when they come to visit your offices
Advantages
- Cableless offices
- Ease of deployment
- Network expandability
- Convenience
- Mobility
- Cost
Disadvantages
- Security
- Range
- Speed
- Reliablity
- Radio emissions
Structured Cabling
Structured cabling design and installation is governed by a set of standards for data or voice communications, often using CAT5E, CAT6 or CAT7 cabling. These define how to lay the cabling in a star formation, such that all outlets terminate at a central patch panel (which can be located within a 19 inch rack). Here it can be determined exactly how these connections will be used. Each outlet can be 'patched' into a data network switch (normally also rack mounted alongside), or patched into a 'telecoms patch panel' for a telephone system, thus making the connection a voice port.
Why?
- Network Speed- for instance, in order to use gigabit technology
- Reliability - wireless networks can have their flaws
Internet access
The world wide web (the internet) has become a neccessity for most businesses. Internet access refers to the means by which devices and users connect to the Internet. ADSL has become a widely available broadband internet connection, providing a variety of data rates. This connection work by splitting the function of a phone line into separate channels for voice telephone calls and for data (internet). Thus, a user can talk on the phone and be connected to the internet at the same time. Other methods of internet access include dial-up, Wi-Fi, satellite and cell phones. These are the slowest and (usually) most expensive options.
Why?
- With a DSL internet connection, you can use DSL telephonie (Voice over IP - VoIP) to help reduce telephone costs
- Use a DSL flat rate instead of complicated and costly volume or time tariffs
Key features...
- Telephone & surf the internet at the same time
- ADSL Flatrate instead of volume or time tariffs
- SDSL
- VoIP
Firewalls & Routers
A firewall is a part of a computer system or network that is designed to block unauthorised access while at the same time permitting authorised communications. It is a device or set of devices configured to permit, deny, encrypt, decrypt, or proxy all (in and out) computer traffic between different destinations based upon a set of rules.
Why?
- Whilst security is essential for all businesses, different customers need different system sizes and services
- Without proper configuration, a firewall can often become worthless
- Such configuration requires detailed understanding of the network applications and appliances required for the organisation's day-to-day operation
Key features...
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Virtual Private Network (VPN)
... a secure network connection for a specified set of individuals. This technology is often used to secure communications to a local company network, through the public Internet. An encrypted tunnel is established within a 'public' network, between two trusted devices, hence creating a secure 'virtual' network used for communication and data transfer. VPNs can also be used to separate communication between different user communities over an underlying physically shared network, with strong security features.
Why?
- Secure remote access, using the internet, to an internal company network (home office, laptops 'on the road', satellite offices)
- Secure internal access to different segmented networks
Key features...
- PPTP
- IPSec