We offer advice and consultancy on which hardware is best suited for your needs, the most beneficial software packages and how to manage a network.

A modern network can provide not only the "traditional" features but can also integrate email, internet access and telephone facilities.

In a network the computers are connected by a cabling system in such a way that users can communicate and share information and resources. These could be anything from a colour printer to applications specifically written to allow people to work together such as Microsoft Exchange and Lotus Notes.

A basic resource sharing system allows people to share files and printers. This can have a problem that data may not be backed up as there is no central file server. This is not recommended for any but a small company who may not be able to justify the cost of a system using a dedicated server.

Security

A dedicated file server and an operating system such as Windows NT, Windows 2000 server or Novell Netware makes possible a company wide system where users can be set up and managed centrally.

It offers increased security of data by giving allowing control of who can access and change files. Thus confidential accounting or personnel information need only be available to those authorised to view it.

As data is held centrally it is possible to have a backup of all data and maintain an archive. A backup should be held off-site and this will help ensure quick recovery after a disaster. Recently one of our customers had all their computers stolen, because they had up-to-date backups we were able to get them up and running again within 3 working days.

Costs

There are 4 elements to the initial cost for the network

The benefits of increased efficiency and better disaster recovery can be set against these costs!