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Zero2Sixty TechBytes
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 Receive expert IT advice, moneysaving tips and informative articles on computer, web and IT solutions simplified for non- technical, small business owners and managers.
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Networks 101
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The Ingredients:
Most likely if you have more than 2 or 3 people in your organization you can benefit from a network with a dedicated server and workstations. So what exactly does that mean? In its most basic form, it means one specialized PC (a server) is dedicated to securely storing and sharing files for users on the network. To protect your data, it is standard practice to install a tape backup drive to make scheduled data backups.
Typically, the server runs a specialize operating system such as Microsoft Small Business Server 2003. In order for these devices to talk to one other you’ll also need a switch where everything is plugged in to. You might have a printer or two attached as well for shared printing. With the Internet in the mix, you’ll also need a router that provides a bridge from your Internet provider to your network so everyone can access the web. You can also add wireless capabilities into the mix by adding a wireless router. That in a nutshell is a basic network. Of course, it can get very elaborate from there.
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Technology Planning
Some of you reading this are already familiar with network basics and have a network running in one form or another in your business. Many of our new clients do have a network in place. However, when we make our initial assessment, we find there are areas where best practices are not being used or solutions that could be taken advantage of such as shared calendars or mobile computing. Do you have a centralized way to track new sales prospects and manage existing customers. Is your network secure with a properly configured firewall. Is your data being backed up?
The other thing that’s important to consider is planning for the future. What are your goals going forward for the business. How can you best make use of technology for your organization. What technology investments, both hardware and software solutions, can you make now that will make sense as your business grows.
Tip
Microsoft created a very nice toolkit for assessing the technology needs of small businesses. It was designed for small business specialist like us to help chart a course for our customers. However its a great business planning tool to get you thinking about technology choices for your company. Here is the link: https://partner.microsoft.com/40029617. You do need Office 2007 to use it. Or, you its a bit beyond your scope, give us a call and we’ll be happy to provide you a customized assessment.
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Some recommended networking technology partners specializing in small business solutions
Network Hardware:
Two manufacturer’s we like for networking solutions geared to small business are D-Link & Linksys. Both have an excellent selection of networking components such as switches, network adapters and routers, wired and wireless, that are easy to configure and priced for small business budgets.
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 Visit Our D-Link Store >>
Download Current Rebates >>
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 Visit Our Linksys Store >>
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Have a specific project in mind?
Need a quote for volume pricing or software licensing? Looking to install or upgrade your current network? What are your IT or Web challenges? The Launch Pad can help you get the ball rolling. We are happy to provide you with an evaluation and no-cost proposal custom tailored for you. Request a Quote >>
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Our new Small Business Resource Center is a work in progress. Check back often for updates and to take advantage of resources, tools, information, promotions and rebates all designed for small businesses just like yours. 
We would love to have your feedback on what resources you would like to see within the SBRC or to hear about a product, service or solution that worked well for your organization. Please use our feedback form to send us your input or tell your story.
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