Factsheet from
Name of ACCA member organisation here
Tel: 0000 000 0000
Email: something@accamemberorganisation.co.uk
www.accamemberorganisation.co.uk
Twenty words from the organisation explaining its services over this one line of available text which you see here
Networking your business
A network can link all the computers in your office, allowing users to share files, programs and
resources such as printers and internet access. Businesses with as few as two computers can
benefit from a network. This briefing will help you install a new network or upgrade an existing one.
This briefing covers:




Types of network.
The equipment you need.
Wireless networks.
Installing and managing your network.
1. Network basics
A network is a way of connecting all the computers in your business together. Even if you only have two computers,
creating a network can still be worthwhile.
1.1
A network makes it easier to work together and share resources.




1.2
You can share files and databases easily.
All computers can access the internet and email.
A single printer can be used by everyone.
With a server, you can set up an intranet and allow employees to access company resources from outside
the business.
Your can build a network with or without a server.




A server is a central computer used to store files and run the network.
Introducing a server makes your network much more versatile.
In general, if you have a small number of computers (five or fewer), a server is not required.
You may benefit from a server if you have more computers or need to run centralised applications like a
customer database.
2. Network equipment
2.1
You may need to purchase a network server.

2.2
A server is used to administer the network and store key files.
Unless you are opting for a totally wireless network (see 2.5), you will need cables to connect your
computers together.


The most common type of network cable is often referred to as an ‘Ethernet cable’. These cables are similar
to telephone cables and have a plug on either end which looks a bit like a telephone connector.
The cables are rated for speed. Category 5 cables can carry data at 100Mbits per second. Category 6 cables
can carry data at 1,000Mbits per second. You can mix category 5 and 6 equipment on the same network.

2.3
Every device you want to connect to the network must have a network adaptor.



2.4



The hub or router sits at the centre of your network.
A router will manage the traffic on your network and ensure all computers communicate correctly.
A hub is a simpler piece of equipment without the ability to manage network traffic.
Opt for a router if possible. It will give you more flexibility and better performance.
Make sure your router has enough connections (called ports). If you have five computers and one printer,
you will need at least six ports.
Some routers are able to connect to the internet directly. This makes sharing the connection simple, and is
ideal if you do not have a server.
Make sure your router supports at least category 5 cables, and category 6 if possible.
Some routers have wireless capabilities too (see 2.5).
You may require a wireless access point (AP).



2.6
Most computers have a network adaptor built in. If not, you can buy them cheaply (around £10).
If you are creating a wireless network, your computers need wireless adaptors. Most laptops have these built
in. If not, you can buy plug-in adaptors or expansion cards.
Look for wireless adaptors that support 802.11g or, ideally, 802.11n, the fastest type of wireless network.
You will also need a hub or router.





2.5
Use category 6 cables to help future-proof your network.
An AP acts just like a hub, but uses radio links instead of wires. Computers with wireless adaptors connect to
it to join the network.
There are several types of wireless network. The most common is called 802.11g, which runs at up to 54
Mbits per second.
802.11n, which can run at up over 100Mbits per second, is becoming more widespread. It is not worth paying
significantly more for this, but if you can find an affordable AP which supports it then it is a way of futureproofing your network.
A hardware firewall can protect your network from online security threats and hackers.



A firewall blocks malicious internet traffic and hacking attempts.
If you have a server, make sure a hardware firewall sits between it and your internet connection
Many internet routers have firewalls built in. These are adequate if you do not have a server.
3. Internet
You will almost certainly want to connect your business network to the internet. You can set your network up so
employees can access it from outside the office.
3.1
The easiest way to connect your network to the internet is to use a broadband connection.




3.2
An ADSL connection may not always be adequate.


2
The most common type of broadband is called ADSL. It connects to the internet over an ordinary telephone
line. ADSL packages cost from about £10 per month.
If you have a basic network without a server, you can buy a router which connects directly to the internet
using ADSL.
The router also acts as the centre of your network (see 2.4), so you need to connect all your computers to it
to share the internet.
It is very easy to set up this type of internet connection sharing. Operating systems like Microsoft Windows
will recognise the connection when you plug each computer into the router.
Too many people using the connection or downloading lots of files at once will slow it down.
With ADSL, uploading is much slower than downloading. This means ADSL is not usually suitable if you

3.3
There are other types of connection you can consider.


3.4
send out large files often, or want your employees to connect to your network using an extranet or virtual
private network.
Additionally, many ADSL packages do not have guaranteed levels of service. You could find yourself without
recourse if your connection goes down.
These range from simply having a second ADSL line to purchasing a leased line with guaranteed capacity.
If you have a large network or specialised needs, talk to your -internet service provider and your IT supplier
to establish what type of connection best fits your needs.
You should host your website separately.

It is generally best to host your website with a specialist web host rather than using your own server.
4. Installing your network
Installing a network is disruptive and requires careful planning. It often pays to bring in a specialist contractor,
especially if you are installing a server.
4.1
Installing cabling will cause the biggest disturbance and take the most time.

4.2
Install network hardware once the infrastructure is in place.



4.3
Install enough cabling and outlets to see you through any planned growth. Spare outlets let you add new
computers quickly.
Connect the network server and one desktop computer to configure the system.
Check all parts of the network server are working correctly.
Install any other communications hardware you need, such as routers.
Install the network software.







Configure the network operating system software using the test desktop computer.
Install any network applications on the main server.
Run a full backup and check it carefully.
Configure one of the desktop computers.
Configure and run any network management software you use.
Copy the desktop configuration to each PC once you are confident the system is working.
Establish access rights and passwords for individual users.
5. Network security
Your data contains vital business data. It is important to keep this information secure.
5.1
Control access with usernames and passwords.


5.2
Use security software on all your company computers and servers.

5.3
Good security software will protect against viruses, spyware, Trojans, hackers and other online threats.
Use multiple firewalls.


3
Each user of the network should have their own username and password.
Only grant each of your employees access to the resources they need.
Firewalls protect your computers from people trying to access them over the internet.
You should install a software firewall on every computer.

5.4
A single hardware firewall between your internet connection and network will provide extra protection.
Keep your server in a secure location and follow good IT security practice.
6. Network management
Networks become more complicated as they grow. You need to have a r ealistic idea of the resources and support
you will need.
6.1
A typical small network would only demand a few hours’ attention each week. There is little complexity
involved.
6.2
A medium-sized network of between ten and 100 computers needs at least one person working full-time to
manage it. There may be more complex issues about who can access information and programs:



6.3
Everybody connects to a network server to share files and resources.
Different groups of users have different access rights to protect sensitive files.
Network versions of accounts and database software have to be available to different groups of users.
You may need two or more people to provide network support if a large network is central to your business .
Do not underestimate the resources required to keep your network running smoothly. Seek advice from your IT
supplier or consultant if necessary, and budget accordingly.
Wireless networks
Wireless (Wi-Fi) networking offers a realistic alternative to wired networks.
A
Wi-Fi networks replace network cables with a radio link.



B
Although these networks are generally easy to set up and use, there are some issues to be aware of.



C
Wireless is not as fast as wired networks, but more than adequate for day-to-day work.
Most laptops and many mobile phones have wireless built in.
They are fast to set up and you can add new computers by switching them on and adding them.
They have limited range. You may need to install several wireless access points to cover your business
premises, especially if you have thick walls.
Interference can be a problem. It can be caused by other Wi-Fi networks, electrical equipment and a host of
other items.
They are less secure than cabled networks. You should always use strong access controls and encryption to
prevent unauthorised connections. Look for hardware that supports WPA-2 encryption.
Many businesses find a combination of wired and wireless technologies works best.


Fast, reliable access can be supplied to fixed desks via cables.
A Wi-Fi network can be set up to cover meeting rooms and common areas. It is ideal for ad-hoc working and
meetings.
Experts’ quotes
“IT networks need to be intelligent and able to help your business to grow, not hinder it. Staff need always-on
access to email and files whether they are in the office or working remotely and data needs to be backed up so it
cannot get lost. IP networking represents a way to consolidate IT and telephony investments, realise costs
savings through single suppliers, lower maintenance and call costs and most importantly enhance business by
4
providing new features that help bring companies closer to their customers.”
James Passingham, Foehn
Expert contributors
Thanks to James Passingham (Foehn, 0208 940 7919).
Further Help
Last reviewed 01.02.11
© BHP Information Solutions Ltd 2011. ISSN 1369-1996. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the
written permission of the publisher. This publication is for general guidance only. The publisher, expert contributors and distributor disclaim all liability
for any errors or omissions. Consult your local business support organisation or your professional adviser for help and advice.
5