The Wayback Machine - https://web.archive.org/all/20060705214959/http://www.gmlaptopguide.com:80/laptopguide-insight-Setting+Up+a+Network+Wired+or+Wireless-section-1-id-28.html

Online Laptop Guide

Online Laptop Guide

Our Network Websites
real estate links
insurance guide
software links
health links
travel links
Setting Up a Network -- Wired or Wireless?
Publish Date : 1/11/2006 5:23:24 PM   Source : Deryck Richards

To Wire or Not to Wire

Wireless networks are en vogue, but your installation won’t be successful unless you chose the right type of network and set it up properly. Wired networks require that each computer be connected via a wire to a central location, called a switch or hub. This often involves installing cables through walls and ceilings and can present a challenge for anyone.

If the computers in your home or office are all within 500 feet of each other, a wireless network might be for you. A wireless network has no cables. It can connect computers on different floors of a building or even across the street. Aside from the obvious benefit of not having wires, wireless networks are more convenient since the setup, configuration, and reconfiguration can often be done within minutes, without extensive planning.

Wireless networks, however, are not as fast as wired networks. If you play computer games or want to view streaming video or other high-speed multimedia, a wireless network might not have enough capacity. But, if you just want to check e-mail and view web pages, a wireless network is a good choice. To install a wireless network, you need a Wireless Access Point and a wireless network card for each computer. You will need to buy a wireless network card for each desktop computer, although most newer laptops come equipped with one.

Security is not a large concern in a wired network, since someone would have to physically connect to a wired network to break in. In wireless networks, a car parked outside with a laptop could easily connect to your network if you don’t have proper security in place. To prevent this from happening, encrypt your wireless network connections, or set a password to access the network, or do both.

Do It Yourself or Call a Professional?

If you decide to use a wired network, consider whether you will install it yourself or hire a professional. If you have a small number of computers that are all situated very close to one another, you may be able to buy pre-assembled network cables and connect them yourself. If you need to wire multiple floors and lay wire through ceilings and walls, you need a professional installation. If you go this route, it is best to begin with a floor plan of your office or home, determine what your current needs are, and consider how the network design can be adapted to future needs. A professional installer should be familiar with EIA/TIA standards, local wiring and electrical codes, and making custom cables. Network cabling professionals are often judged by the neatness of their work, because sloppy cabling is more apt to deteriorate over time, harder to manage, and poses more of a fire risk.

Having a wireless network or a wired network is not mutually exclusive. Many small offices have a wired network in addition to one or more wireless networks, depending on their needs. Wireless networks are continuing to get faster, more secure, and less expensive. Wired networks will continue to coexist with wireless networks, often in the same homes and offices.

About The Author

Deryck Richards is the founder and managing partner of Desktronix. With an extensive educational background in computer information systems, Deryck currently manages hosting and data center operations for Desktronix. He also provides system administration and technical support directly to small businesses as he has since 2000. His areas of expertise include networking, Windows, Linux, and Macintosh systems and he is the author of The Guide to Technology for Small Business. For more information on Desktronix, visit www.desktronix.com.

Premium Link Partners
A+ Certification at CertifyExpress


Become a Premium Link Partner
Premium Link Partners
A+ Certification at CertifyExpress - MCSE training at CertifyExpress. Your sources for A+ Certification, MCSE, CCNA, CCNP, certification.


Become a Premium Link Partner

Laptop Guide


Setting Up a Network -- Wired or Wireless?        
To Wire or Not to Wire Wireless networks are en vogue, but your installation won’t be successful unless you chose the right type of network and set it up properly. Wired networks require that each computer be connected via a wire to a central...

Setup A Home Wireless Network: A Short Tutorial        
For homes with more than one computer, it would be wise for you to setup a wireless network and share your high speed internet connection, as well as the scanner, printer, and other computer devices. Wireless networking, "wireless fidelity",...

Small Business Network Security 101        
Introduction With broadband usage quickly becoming a standard in the business world and network security hazards on the rise, small businesses without a dedicated IT team are faced with the great challenge of protecting their networks from...

The Fundamentals of a Great Marriage        
There are two types of marriages. A marriage in which a couple is married and cares about each other and another in which the couple loves each other and supports the development of each emotionally and spiritually. I met my wife in Russia. Our...

The Secret Science Of Online Shopping        
In theory you could create a retail web site with a limitless selection; an online store where every kind of merchandise known to man could be sold. Would people be interested in buying from such a huge enterprise? Why do people buy...

The Self-Appointed Altruists        
Their arrival portends rising local prices and a culture shock. Many of them live in plush apartments, or five star hotels, drive SUV's, sport $3000 laptops and PDA's. They earn a two figure multiple of the local average wage. They are...

The Top 10 'Must-Have' Laptop Accessories        
You've laid out good money for your laptop computer, but you're not done spending just yet. There are a few more laptop accessories you may want to consider to make the package complete. 1: Laptop Case / Bag As the newest member of the...

Vacation Insurance... Saves Your Money, Time And Frustrations!        
Don't forget your vacation insurance before you take off for any travel. I am very serious when it comes to insurance, I do not want to take any chances, I grew up in a family with my mother as a sole bread winner, my Dad passed away when I was...

Total Results : 37  
More News (Opens in New Window) :    [1]   2   3   4      Next Page
Our Network Websites >>> real estate links | insurance guide | software links | health links | travel links mens clothing | bargain cruises | hotel reviews | used cars | wedding favors | extended stay hotels | condos buying tips | laptop guide | bargain holidays | best mortgage deals | dental insurance | auto insurance quotes | cheap life insurance | car insurance quotes | life insurance quotes | ireland golf vacation packages | golf vacations | ireland vacations | hawaii vacation packages | vacation packages | digital camera review | digital video camera | security camera | home security cameras | disposable cameras | digital printing | digital photo software | digital projectors | digital photo processing | surveillance cameras | electronic stores | home electronics | diet supplements | zone diet | eating disorders guide | fsbo | learn spanish | learn italian | business brokers | commercial real estate |

:: SiteWide Links :: Hotel Reviews :: discount hotel :: vacation packages : wedding favors :: mens clothing ::