Unless your business has only a single computer, you should consider installing a Local Area Network (LAN). If you have an office with several computers and a server then a LAN is essential for your IT system to run efficiently.
A LAN connects all your IT hardware together and permits the sharing of data and resources such as printers and servers. A LAN improves staff productivity by allowing them to easily share information across the network rather than having to use disks or similar methods.
LANs consist of cabling and switches that will provide you with a number of outlets into which devices such as computers, networked printers etc can be connected. Switches provide the central point where data is exchanged between devices. You should select a switch with enough "ports" to support all the connected devices in your office and allow expansion. For best performance the switches you select need to match the data transmission speeds of your cabling and the network cards in your computers. Your switches should be located in a secure area, e.g. next to your server. You should restrict access to your switches, since interference could cause many of your computers to lose their network connections.
An alternative to a wired network is a wireless LAN. If at all possible, you should use a wired LAN for the main part of your office network, and use wireless technology for workers who need mobility around the building. Remember wireless networks are subject to greater interference from devices transmitting in the same frequency range and are less secure. Wireless networks should always be encrypted.
If you are installing new network infrastructure into your office then always plan a minimum of 4 power points and 2 data points at every desk location to fulfil the needs of your staff. Three compartment trunking can be used to safely place power and data cabling around the walls. Ensure that your data cabling terminates at a patch panel located where you plan to place your switch and server.
