Computer network setup: the best configuration for your business

Setting up a computer network for a small business is extremely important to ensure productivity, collaboration, and an efficient communication system among co-workers and employees. Here are some things to consider:

1. Establish user accounts and passwords
2. Configure network settings properly
3. Choose the right hardware to handle data traffic
4. Determine your networking needs based on usage
5. Set up network security is paramount
6. Implement file sharing and backup by the book
7. Train employees to limit problems down the road

Developing a properly configured computer network is a primary requirement when you are expanding your business. Many companies, when they begin, don’t feel the need for an elaborate network setup, and they may be right. However, with the threat landscape changing so rapidly, it quickly becomes an eventual necessity. At some point, a robust network system must be installed.

We help businesses grow with the use of Technology. Small businesses often start with 2 or 3 separate systems. As they grow, it quickly becomes evident that storing files on separate systems is a liability, and that employing a centralized server for data storage makes more sense. This is often followed by offsite and onsite backup. However, this network design scheme is quickly being replaced by cloud technology as a viable replacement. It used to be that if you wanted to run your email on Exchange, you had to invest thousands of dollars in hardware and software, and then have someone come in and configure it up for you, costing hundreds more. Nowadays, you can merely pay a low monthly cost and get the full use of Exchange for your email platform. This paradigm is unfolding across all different sectors of IT, from basic cloud storage and file serving to virtualized application serving and logic operations, all based in the cloud. All of this can be taken care of by determining the best configuration for your business.

Computer network setup: hot to choose the best configuration for your business

Our services include building out a computer network infrastructure that forms the backbone of your business. The best configuration is planned and designed with all your devices in mind. We take into account your network bandwidth, user devices, applications & software, security and usage when designing your network. As all of these aspects are supported by your network, it is crucial that we look at the business from a holistic approach, identifying keys areas where improvements can be made to address shortcomings within your infrastructure.

Setting up a computer network in a business environment is very different from setting up a home or domestic network. Business network design has a high degree of complexity and tighter security challenges. Building the best network for your business depends on your business needs. We help small businesses compete in an ever changing marketplace by ensuring that the IT Infrastructure of their Network is not only Fast and Secure, but is able to handle continuously increasing demands.

Five reasons why a small business should have a computer network:

To Maximize Proficiency:  A strong computer network is designed to make the most out of your computers and peripheral devices, so that all the systems work to the best of their ability.

To maximize bandwidth:  A stable IT network setup makes it easy to share a single broadband Internet connection between multiple computers and users.

Computer network setup for Small Businesses

Device sharing:  A computer network also allows the sharing of peripherals, such as printers and scanners. With a single network-ready printer, all network stations can gain access to it. No need to buy a printer for each computer station.

File-Sharing:  Setting up a computer network lets people access files, images, music, and other resources that are stored remotely or on an onsite server.

Streamline workflow: Small companies are still expanding, growing their network of people and devices. Strong networking thus becomes essential for streamlining the increasing workflow.

Things to know before setting up a business network

   Our configuration experts are thoroughly trained and experienced in designing and implementing complex computer networks. There are a lot of factors that need to be taken into consideration when designing a computer network that is not only robust and secure, but also serves all the purposes of your business. Here are a few things that you should be aware of when setting up a network with your business’ overall efficiency in mind.

Computer network setup: what you need to know

● More than 3 Computers:  As per Networking Best Practices, in order to run efficiently, it is recommended to have a file-server, or cloud server as part of your network infrastructure if you have more than three workstations on a single network. One needs to decide what type of server will you need? Is a single server sufficient, or does your business demand more than 1 server? Will you run all or most of your services from the cloud?

● Wired or Wireless:  Computer networks are abundant in the market. Many businesses these days are switching to wireless systems to avoid the hassle of cabling and hard-wiring their systems. But, wired networking is still more secure, more reliable, costs less, and has faster connection speeds. It is often worth it to have a qualified cabling installer to retrofit your office with proper Ethernet cabling. For the added expense of around $200 per drop, you can get increased performance, security, and reliability.

● Security:  One cannot afford to negate this aspect of setting up a computer network. Once set up, it’s imperative that the network become secure by configuring the security settings accordingly in the router or operating system. This is where a reputable IT company can assist in setting permissions for internal users, as well as machines. This is primarily done through the Windows Operating System as well and the Network Router. Setting up firewalls and Internet security is a concern too.

● Hack Proof:  Of course, who wants to leave an unprotected network for hackers to attack? Be sure to protect your network from hackers, viruses, malware, and other outside attacks. Use the best malware protection to keep the data secure.

These are a few aspects to be taken care of while setting up the best configuration for your business. Network setup experts at TSGCS run all the queries for you, plan it all to give you the computer networking support that your company requires, that suits your needs and budget best.

TSG Computer Services is a Vancouver and Abbotsford, BC based IT Support company who specializes in Security and Solutions for Increased Productivity. Contact us now to see how we can help you.