Networking Basics: What You Need To Know
When looking at networking basics, understanding the way a network operates is the first step to understanding routing and switching. The network operates by connecting computers and peripherals using two pieces of equipment; switches and routers. Switches and routers, essential networking basics, enable the devices that are connected to your network to communicate with each other, as well as with other networks.
Though they look quite similar, routers and switches perform very different functions in a network.
Networking Basics: Switches
Switches are used to connect multiple devices on the same network within a building or campus. For example, a switch can connect your computers, printers and servers, creating a network of shared resources. The switch, one aspect of your networking basics, would serve as a controller, allowing the various devices to share information and talk to each other. Through information sharing and resource allocation, switches save you money and increase productivity. There are two basic types of switches to choose from as part of your networking basics: managed and unmanaged.
An unmanaged switch works out of the box and does not allow you to make changes. Home-networking equipment typically offers unmanaged switches. A managed switch allows you access to program it. This provides greater flexibility to your networking basics because the switch can be monitored and adjusted locally or remotely to give you control over network traffic, and who has access to your network.
Networking Basics: Routers
Routers, the second valuable component of your networking basics, are used to tie multiple networks together. For example, you would use a router to connect your networked computers to the Internet and thereby share an Internet connection among many users. The router will act as a dispatcher, choosing the best route for your information to travel so that you receive it quickly. Routers analyze the data being sent over a network, change how it is packaged, and send it to another network, or over a different type of network. They connect your business to the outside world, protect your information from security threats, and can even decide which computers get priority over others. Depending on your business and your networking plans, you can choose from routers that include different capabilities. These can include networking basics such as:
Firewall: Specialized software that examines incoming data and protects your business network against attacks Virtual Private Network (VPN): A way to allow remote employees to safely access your network remotely IP Phone network : Combine your company's computer and telephone network, using voice and conferencing technology, to simplify and unify your communications
How Routing & Switching Keep the Business Going
Routers and switches are the building blocks for all business communications from data to voice and video to wireless access. They can improve a company's bottom line by enabling your company to increase productivity, cut business costs, and improve security and customer service.
Specifically, routers and switches support:
Sharing applications
Provide staff access to business applications Improve employee productivity.
Using routing and switching technologies allows your staff, even those located in different locations, to have equal access to all your business applications, information and tools. Keeping everyone connected to the same tools can increase employee productivity. Routing and switching also can provide access to advanced applications and enable services, such as IP voice, videoconferencing and wireless networks.
Speeding access to information
Manage information efficiently Review what is happening across your business
Accurate, timely information is essential for making prudent business decisions. Routing and switching provides access to allow great visibility into real-time business information and provides a sound basis for effective decision-making.
Enhancing customer service
Provide ready access to customer information Improve customer responsiveness
Today's customers expect rapid responses and personalized services whenever they're dealing with your business, either by phone, email or on a website. A responsive, reliable small business network is an absolute necessity to give your employees speedy access to customer information, and enable them to respond rapidly and intelligently to resolve customer requirements.
Reducing operating costs
Share office equipment for reduced costs Provide high-speed Internet access
Routing and switching technologies can make a positive impact on your bottom line. You save expenses by sharing equipment, such as printers and servers, and services, such as Internet access. A reliable network also can grow with your business, keeping you from having to replace it as your needs grow.
Improving security
Reduce risk Protect valuable business information
Because high-speed Internet connections are always on, you may be vulnerable to security threats. Viruses, spyware, Internet attacks, e-mail assaults, and other security concerns are real dangers. By installing a networked solution with switches and routers, you can protect valuable business data. For example, routers can protect your network with a built-in firewall and Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) - specialized software that examines incoming data and protects against attacks.
Enabling remote connections
Provide secure remote access for mobile workers Get work done from anywhere
Globalization has changed the way we work. Virtual teams, mobile workers, and home-based telecommuters all need to share information at any time. Modern businesses need networks that can connect employees, suppliers, partners and customers regardless of location, whether they are across town or halfway around the globe. With remote connectivity through a VPN, employees can securely access company resources and tools and work more productively.
Building a Small Office Network
Building a small office network means starting with a foundation of switches and routers. The following guide will help you understand the difference between switches and routers and develop a clear vision for what your network foundation needs.
Building a Small Office Network: The Difference Between Switches and Routers
When building a small office network, the two most essential pieces of equipment you will need are switches and routers. Though they look similar, the two devices perform different functions in a network.
Switches connect multiple devices (computers, printers, servers) on the same network within a building or campus. A switch enables connected devices to share information and talk to each other. Building a small office network isn't possible without switches to tie devices together. Routers tie multiple networks together. When building a small office network, you'll need one or more routers. A router connects your networked computers to the Internet. This enables all connected computers to share one single Internet connection. A router acts as a dispatcher, choosing the best route for your information to travel. It connects your business to the world, protects information from security threats, and can even decide which computers get priority over others.
Building a Small Office Network: Determining the Best Foundation
When building a small office network, it's important to determine the best foundation for your company's needs. The following tips should help you get started.
- Invest in business-grade switches and routers for reliable communications. Consumer or home networking products can't keep pace with the challenges of business growth.
- Invest in a network that can grow over time, so you can add features and functionality as needed. Additions to consider include video surveillance, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), integrated messaging, and wireless applications.
- Make sure your switches and routers are easy to install, use, and manage. Example: Switches with in-line power allow you to place equipment, such as wireless access points, anywhere there's a network wall jack. You'll be spared the trouble and expense of installing additional electrical outlets or wires to power the devices.
- Make sure your network is designed with reliability and redundancy in mind. This provides the business continuity you'll need to bounce back quickly from unforeseen circumstances.
