Networking

Today's office environment is almost always networked.  This allows sharing of peripheral devices and considerable cost savings to business owners. Many homes and families are beginning to see the benefits of a networked environment, too.  Networking by the traditional cable method is common today, but we will be happy to show you the benefits of wireless networking as well.   The benefits of networking include 1) backup management, 2) centralized data management, and 3) security. 

1)  Backup management

Even the very best computer can experience a hard drive crash. Depending on the nature of the damage, it is possible that your data can be lost.  With a regimented schedule for back-up from networked stations to a central server, hard drive failures on individual workstations are less of a crisis.   From consulting through server installation, networking and configuration of automatic backup, we can help.

2) Centralized data management

Important data can easily become corrupt when transferred between groups of individuals. Called "sneaker-net,"  the transferring of data via floppy disks from one computer to another can result in multiple copies on different disks, eventually making it impossible to determine the integrity of the copy you're working with. Networking allows for centralized data management, which places data on a server that is capable of granting multiple, password protected access. The server then takes on the responsibility of ensuring data integrity. Centralized management also plays a key role in ensuring that critical data gets backed-up.

3) Security

Network operating systems allow  for strict control over the level of access granted users. Permissions on systems range from departments to individuals. Network operating systems also provide monitoring software which can notify administrators when unsuccessful attempts are made and can even be set to "lock-out" questionable accounts. Firewalls, which defend against unauthorized intrusion from the internet, can also provide added security to internet-accessible machines on the network.