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Data Networking Buying Guide
Get the Connection Two or more computers connected together comprise a network where information and equipment can be shared. The network can be as small as a work group of two or as large as the entire World Wide Web. A network can help you sell your products to a broader market, link remote branches, support telecommuters or simply share printers, modems and databases within your current office. With the right network your business can take the next step - or maybe a quantum leap. This buyer's guide offers information to help you get connected.
What can a good data network do for my business?
Avoid business inefficiencies When information and resources are shared and available when you need them, efficiency is increased in several ways-
Cut costs Linking computers together in a network allows you to share resources and save money. A network makes it possible to share software, printers, modems and phone lines. Multiple staff can share one color printer. Files can be saved on a central hard drive to avoid continual upgrades on individual computers. Instead of buying multiple copies of a software program, buy one network license and load the software onto your server. Improve internal communications Your staff is more likely to share ideas and information if you make it easy to do so. E-mail makes it possible to leave long, complex messages, attach files or broadcast a change in policy. You can set up an office intranet where staff can get the latest information about shipping charges or a new employee benefit package. Today's shared scheduling and appointment software makes it easy to set up a meeting that fits everyone's calendar. Collaborative applications enable employees to communicate with each other regardless of location. Remote doesn't mean out of the loop anymore, particularly when field staff can get information at the same time as those at the head office. Reduce dependency on paper Electronic access to central files eliminates paper waste-
Increase revenue Expand your market outside your city or country by making your product or service available online. A network can enable your company provide better customer service. Clients will be impressed if staff can check the company network while on the phone and provide quick and personalized answers to their questions. Satisfied customers mean return business and referrals. Use the network to operate more efficiently, reduce overhead and to keep your clients happy. Enable growth Growth is an obvious goal for most small and medium-sized businesses, but growing effectively can become a critical challenge. As the number of employees increases, so do the complexities of managing network and space resources. Maintaining a collaborative environment where information is easily shared and new employees can begin making a contribution quickly is a key to success. An effective network can ease growing pains by helping your employees share documents and equipment. Client or employee databases can be maintained centrally and updates seen by all users simultaneously. An effective network can also allow employees to telecommute, which reduces the need for additional office space and can increase employee satisfaction.
What key things should I keep in mind when choosing a data network?
Analyze your business needs The first step to understanding what you need and expect from a network is evaluating your business needs. Think about-
Choosing an operating system The operating system is the brains of your network and consists of programs that manage tasks such as loading and running applications, or moving files. There are many packaged software operating systems on the market. Your choice should be linked to your specific needs. Consider-
Selecting hardware and software Select software to meet your business needs and then determine the appropriate hardware platform necessary to operate it. If you choose a client/server network, you will need network operating system software - the programs that enable your computers to communicate with each other and share hardware. Make sure you also purchase antivirus and back-up software. Consider network management software - it helps you do things such as installations and troubleshooting. The least expensive way to buy software is usually as a package. Hardware requirements for most network operating systems include a server computer with battery back-up unit or UPS and possibly an external hard disk drive. Consider your staff's needs when deciding on hardware requirements for their computers. Some of your staff may require more powerful computers to perform their tasks. This is particularly true of graphic artists and programmers - their computers will need to be faster, have enhanced processing power and have additional storage capacity. A reliable operating system is also a must. For staff in the field, you may want to consider laptop computers. Ensure your network is available for critical communications Network congestion is bad for your business. It can mean-
Today's best systems can route network traffic according to priority to make sure critical communication goes first. Mission critical devices, applications, groups and users can be set up for guaranteed bandwidth. A network set up this way can add value to your business by keeping your communications highly predictable and allowing you to deliver data in a more reliable manner.
What are the hardware components of a network?
Ethernet Your network's signaling method (or access method) specifies how computers gain access to the network cable. Ethernet is the most popular signaling method for small networks as it provides good performance at low cost and works with most cable types and almost all PCs. Fast Ethernet works much like a regular Ethernet but uses special cable and runs ten times faster. You need Fast Ethernet-compatible switches (the boxes to which you computers connect) and Network Interface Cards to take advantage of this faster speed. Some switches allow you to use Fast Ethernet for a server and regular Ethernet for workstations. Network Interface Card Any device that communicates on the network requires a Network Interface Card. All network traffic that a device sends or receives must pass through the device's Network Interface Card, which handles the coding and decoding of cable. Switches A switch is a device at a central location to which two or more cables connect. Switches are usually separate boxes. Some switches may include network management software that lets you monitor their status from a remote console. A stackable switch is one that you can easily connect with other switches with a cable. A switch can also divide your network into smaller pieces for better performance when network traffic forms a bottleneck at some point in the system. Switches can perform this segmentation on an as-needed basis, which helps your LAN meet current traffic demands. Switches can also link network segments having different speeds. Wireless Access Points Wireless Access Points allow for mobile wireless connectivity to the network. Multi-mode access points that can provide 802.11a/b/g connectivity are best suited for business deployments and 'thin' access points that are controlled by a compatible WLAN Security Switch offer the most features, easiest management and strongest security. Routers A router can connect two networks of different types, for example, your LAN and the Internet, and provides better traffic isolation. You can program the router to let only certain kinds of traffic flow across the device, which makes routers useful for security purposes. Routers can communicate with each other over the network so they can determine how to send information along the fastest route. Servers Many desktop computers work well as a server as long as the specifications are appropriate. Models designated as "servers" can offer useful advantages such as preinstalled networking software, sophisticated diagnostic software and extra bays for adding disk drives. Get advice from your reseller about how quick a processor you will need and about server memory. Every server should have a battery backup unit to keep the server running in the event of a power failure. You will also need a method to backup data in case a server drive ever fails. Personal Computers Consider your staff's needs when deciding on hardware requirements for their computers. Some of your staff may require more powerful computers to perform their tasks. This is particularly true of graphic artists and programmers - their computers will need to be faster, have enhanced processing power and have additional storage capacity. A reliable operating system is also a must. For staff in the field, you may want to consider laptop computers.
What data network choices are available for small business?
Peer-to-peer networks In peer-to-peer systems, any computer can share resources and connect to shared resources such as a file, disk, CD-ROM or printer. There is no one computer dedicated to serving the network. The system is easily set up, does not monopolize a computer as a server and can often run on your existing computer software. Drawbacks to this network type include compromised security and speed, particularly as usage increases. Managing the shared resources takes everyone's time, as responsibility is shared amongst all users. The main reason that many larger companies don't use peer-to-peer networks extensively is that security is an issue. In most cases, any user on the network has the authority to share any file on their computer with anyone else on the network. If every user isn't sensitive to security concerns, files are shared that others shouldn't see. Client/Server networks When one computer is dedicated to managing the shared resources, the system is a client/server network. The dedicated computer "serves" all the users ("clients") on the system, but the computer can't be used for anything else. This network system can share application programs and provides better security and speed than peer-to-peer networks. The responsibilities for network administration are centralized ? all upgrades and back-ups can be made from the server. On the down side, there are additional costs for the server/server software and there is a need for a knowledgeable system manager. Hybrid networks A hybrid network is a combination of peer-to-peer and client/server networks. Work groups can share files and some equipment just like the peer-to-peer system. A server manages files and programs that will be used by all staff or need special security. The advantages are flexibility -- you can even move gradually to a client/server system by placing more and more services on the server. Hybrid systems have the same security, administration and speed concerns as a peer-to-peer network.
What questions should I ask a potential vendor?
What is your process for designing my network? Designing a network involves deciding on a peer-to-peer or client/server network, system software and hardware, security and maintenance. First a vendor must understand your needs -- now and in the future. Make sure the vendor takes the time to learn about your business. They should explore the needs of your staff and clients and ask about your competition. Based on these discussions, the vendor should suggest a network design and then work with you to refine it. Can you tell me about your technical support program? Your technical support needs will depend on the complexity of the network and on your in-house expertise. Here are some questions to ask-
How are installation and upgrading handled? A vendor may do the installation or upgrades or subcontract to another firm. In either case, the scope of work should be clearly spelled out in the contract. The contract should explicitly require your vendor to-
What is your trouble response time? Ask the vendor about response to trouble calls-
Look for a response time of two hours or less and expect the problem to be fixed within three hours of your initial call. The vendor should keep a maintenance and repair log to record the problem and describe the service performed. What about maintenance and repair? Maintenance service can be supplied through a contract or at pre-determined rates for labor and materials. Ask these questions-
You should be able to renew the service contract annually for two or three years at the original price or at a modest increase. Make sure you have a termination clause requiring 30-days written notice from the vendor. What about training? Training about the operation, maintenance and management of your system will be required. Find out if this is a standard part of your contract. Ask about the qualifications of the trainers. You may want to have the training at the vendor's facility so that sufficient computers are available for a full training session. Ensure that you will receive the manuals to operate and maintain the system at no additional charge. You should be able to reproduce these manuals for internal use. What warranties are offered? Warranties on the network hardware range between one year to limited lifetime. Look for a minimum of one year. Software is typically warrantied for 90 days. Examine the warranties to make sure you understand the limitations and your obligations. You may find yourself out in the cold if you use reconditioned products, let untrained people work with the system, or make alterations or modifications not authorized by the supplier. Find out if the vendor handles warranty replacements and servicing or if you will have to send the product back to the manufacturer.
How do I go about choosing an Internet service provider?
Do I need a full service provider? In addition to Internet access and e-mail, a full service provider offers hardware, upgrades, Web hosting, security products, intranet services and consulting about special needs. If the range of hook-up options is confusing, a full service provider can help you analyze your access and service needs. As your business grows, you may want a provider who can help you set up a Web site or assist you in selling your product over the Internet. Do I need dial-up access or dedicated access? A dial-up connection to an online service is the system used in most homes. You need a modem, standard communications software and an Internet service provider. You may be charged a flat monthly or yearly service fee or an amount based on your actual use time. The dial-up connection works well for small businesses with requirements for e-mail and occasional access to the Internet. Dedicated access means your network is continuously connected to the Internet. You have instant access to the Internet 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Dedicated access is a wise choice if you want to establish an Internet presence and pursue e-Business opportunities. However, security measures become even more important when you connect your network to the Internet. Can you get customer references? Customer references are important when looking for a business Internet service provider. A small business has different needs than a personal user so ask for business references and call them to find out what services they have used and their level of satisfaction. What contract term is best? The information technology market is changing so rapidly that you don't want to lock yourself into a contract with an Internet provider for more than one year. What about security? When your network is connected to the Internet you need to take special security measures to protect confidential information -- both your client's and your own. Firewalls can prevent access by unauthorized users, restrict access to parts of the Internet or your network, or refuse to allow some packets of information into your corporate network. Firewalls can usually restrict outbound communications by user ID or by Internet Protocol address. A firewall is a single, defensible connection from one network into another. The most complex, and effective, firewalls use something called a proxy server. Proxy servers don't permit direct communication between the Internet and your internal network. Instead, they act as a store-and-forward repository. The server examines incoming traffic from either direction, sees it that traffic meets its predefined criteria, and if so, passes it to the requesting computer. If you are selling products on the Internet you will want a secure server. These servers have software that encodes critical information so that only a legitimate user can decode it. How long has the provider been in business? Some people predict that 80 to 90 percent of Internet providers now in business will be gone in five years. Ideally, look for an established provider with the expertise and resources to keep your mission critical applications up and running - 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Does the provider offer hardware? If your provider offers hardware as part of your package ensure you understands who owns and is responsible for the equipment. Ensure that the equipment comes from a reputable manufacturer and determine upgrade and repaired costs up-front. Find out about the warranty and determine who is responsible for maintenance and repair. How fast is the network connection? The speed of the network connection is measured in thousand bits per second or Kbps. You will want a minimum of a 56 Kbps system. This speed can be provided by a conventional analog modem. Digital services may also be available in your area. Services like cable modems, ADSL, ISDN or Frame Relay will offer you much faster speeds and, depending on your needs, may be a better value for your business. Discuss the alternatives and costs with your service provider and request customer references if you need more information before making a selection.
How are data networks sold and managed?
Outsourcing You may choose to hire a networking company to quickly and capably determine your needs and provide an appropriate system. If you are in a hurry, don't like computer hassles, or lack expertise this is probably the best choice. You may also choose to outsource parts of the job and do the rest with in-house resources. Outsourcing the day-to-day maintenance of your network can save money and free up your staff for important, strategic projects. For example, if your company decides it wants Internet access, some service providers will host your Web site and manage your security for you. Today's tight labor market may be the single biggest reason now to outsource. In the past, many organizations have been hesitant to outsource anything because it meant relinquishing control to an outside vendor and were they were afraid of exposing sensitive information to outsiders. Selective outsourcing (selects which activities to be performed by one or more third-party firms) provides flexibility and allows companies to complement internal resources with external expertise while maintaining control of responsibilities and strategies. Partnering If you would like to develop some network expertise in-house but you don't feel comfortable setting up a network on your own, partnering is the best solution. A contracted company will work with your staff or network administrator, usually at your office to set up the network and to train them on on-going administrative functions. The contractor provides expertise and helps your staff understand the network system. Typically, your business will take on responsibility for day-to-day management, but will be able to call on the partner for assistance as required. In-house development and administration Larger businesses or those with mission critical network needs may choose to develop the internal resources and skills to design and administer their own network. This strategy typically provides the strongest control over the network and the shortest response times for problem resolution, but requires commitment to staff resources and training in order to be effective. Staff understands the business objectives and network requirements and are often in a better position to assess implementation risks versus value to the business.
What should I expect to pay?
What is the range for data networks? Software expenses can range from very low-end for a peer-to-peer network to at least $1,000 for a client/server network. Expect to pay at least US $2,000 to $3,000 for a small server and up to US $0,000 for one that can accommodate 100 users. Workstations with a monitor should cost about US $1,500 to $2,000. Additional hardware, such as an external disk drive enclosure and a battery back-up unit will likely add up to another US $1,000 to $2,000. Add this all up and you are in the US $20,000 range for a basic client/server network for 10 users, not including printers, fax machines or modems. How much should I expect to pay for support? Support contract pricing varies widely depending on the level of support and the guarantees of how quickly problems will be resolved. Vendors may also offer extended warranty or upgrade paths to support your ongoing needs. Compare rates from several vendors and take a few moments to think about the costs to your business of having your data network down during business hours. How much should I expect to pay for an Internet service provider? Charges may include fees for-
Expect to pay about US $20 to $50 per month for basic Internet service, including set-up, access, five e-mail accounts, 50 MB of disk storage space and basic support. The range in cost reflects the speed of the service. Remember that service charges are continuing to decline, so avoid signing up for a long-term contract.
What are my data networking options from Nortel?
Business Ethernet Switch 100 Business Secure Router 222 WLAN Solutions for SMB - Business Access Point 120
How do I learn more or purchase a Nortel Networks data network?
For more information on data network solutions for small to mid-sized businesses, contact Nortel Networks today.
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