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Networking Overview

Whether selling designer kitchen magnets out of a garage or running an international paper products company, any organization with two or more computers can enjoy improved information management, accessibility, and a fattened bottom line by running a network. Yet, just as no two businesses are exactly alike, neither are two networks exactly the same. So what’s a manager to do in this day of multiple TCP/IP connections in complex client-server workgroups? To help you avoid being overwhelmed by the range of network solutions available, we’ll walk you through the fundamentals.

 So, what is a network anyway?

In its most basic form, a network is composed of two or more computers connected together to share information and peripherals such as printers. Networking your computers can drastically improve your company’s productivity, secure data, and reduce expense (see sidebar). Creating the network is normally a simple process, whereby a small piece of hardware is fitted inside each computer and then linked with cables to other computers on the network. Software helps the network run. Larger organizations, generally operating 10 computers or more, require a central organizing computer, or server. In most cases servers require additional software, plus an internal or out-sourced system administrator to keep things humming.

Selecting the best network for you

There are three basic network types, designed to run anywhere from less than 10 computers to hundreds: peer-to-peer, client-server, and server appliance–based, which can all be tailored to almost any business need. Still, before choosing your network solution, consider the following (remember, all network solutions can be upgraded as your business grows and your networking needs change):

bulletHow many computers, printers, and other devices are to be connected?
bulletWhat is the type and size of the business?
bulletWhat level of security is required?
bulletWhat amount of network traffic is expected?
bulletWhat types of software applications do you use and how many people use those applications?

Peer-to-peer network

Designed for 10 or fewer users, peer-to-peer networking is incorporated into the Windows 2000 Professional operating system, and requires no additional software or server. In fact, in a peer-to-peer setup, each computer becomes a server to other computers on the network. Each computer user acts as his or her own administrator and chooses what data to share with others over the network and what to keep private. One cool characteristic of the peer-to-peer network running Windows 2000 Professional is Internet Connection Sharing (ICS), a feature that lets up to 10 users share one potentially low-cost Internet connection. With ICS one person can surf the Web as another sends e-mail. And, best of all, you don’t have to install additional modems. 

Peer-to-peer networks are best for: The smallest organizations, where needs are limited to file, print, and Internet-connection sharing, and where information security and centralized management are not a major concern.
Client-server network

If advanced security needs are an issue or your company plans to grow considerably in the near future, a client-server network could be just the ticket. As the name implies, client-server networks require a server, which acts as a central storage point for files, e-mail, application programs, and shared devices like a modem or printer, all accessible by the other computers on the network. Servers are usually high-performance computers with large storage capacities operated by a system administrator. Typically, only the administrator is granted access to the server. The administrator also oversees network operation and data backup, and administers passwords and other security issues.

There are many software options for client-server networks, including Windows 2000 Server.  The Windows 2000 Server family affords small businesses one of the most powerful operating systems in the world today. For example, Terminal Services is an optional component that provides a cost-effective, yet easy way to implement, administer, and maintain the network remotely. This is great news for companies that can’t afford a full-time system administrator.

Another option for businesses running up to 50 computers through a server is Small Business Server from the Microsoft BackOffice� family. Small Business Server is an affordable technology built around the Windows NT� Server operating system. Small Business Server includes powerful capabilities that address small business needs including internal and external e-mail; fast, secure Internet access; fax- and modem-sharing services; and a console for basic server administration. For more information about Small Business Server, visit the Small Business Server site.

Client-server networks are best for: Larger organizations that want centralized management, reliable data backup, and strong information security such as with e-commerce.