Connectivity solutions

With prices plummeting and a growing selection of instant networks now available in computer stores, setting up a local area network (LAN) for your small business has never been cheaper or easier.

Most LANs will pay for themselves — even a basic network can save your company time, money and lots of legwork. And remember that a LAN becomes more useful with each additional user; as your company grows, so will the value of your network.

Choosing the Right LAN

• To find out what type of network you need, answer the following questions:
• How many employees do you need to connect?
• Will you add more users in the future? How many?
• Are you going to use a shared Internet connection (T1, DSL, cable modem)?
• Is data security a major concern?
• Is there somebody in-house who can maintain the network, or will you need an IT professional to come in periodically?
• Can you afford an IT professional?
• Which employees will have access to various files, shared printers and other resources?