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Wired and Wireless Networks
Computers are typically networked together by connecting them in workgroups (in a local area network or ‘LAN’) via a central device known as a ‘hub’ or ‘switch’. For small businesses that’s fine, but larger enterprises need to connect these workgroup hubs together (via what is traditionally known as a ‘backbone’). This process can be extended repeatedly up to the point where telecommunications links take over for a much greater reach (in a wide area network or ‘WAN’).
PCs in a LAN are usually connected to the hub or switch (and thus each other) using ‘twisted pair’ cabling, and a communications technology called ‘Ethernet’. Other networked devices eg. laser printers may be connected to the LAN in exactly the same way as PCs, and there may also be communications devices known as a routers, which are the means whereby PCs on the LAN communicate with other networks and the outside world (eg. the Internet).
It is also possible to connect devices together without wires in a ‘wireless’ LAN (WLAN). This is normally achieved by having a wireless LAN access point as a device on the network. PCs, notebook/laptop PCs, PDAs, printers and other wireless-enabled devices merely connect to this access point as though they were physically cabled into the LAN. Also, in the same way as on a wired LAN, if a router is connected to the WLAN then the wirelessly connected devices can access this and thus the Internet, to send/receive e-mail etc.
Wireless LANs are particularly relevant where it would be either inappropriate (eg. a listed building) or too costly to install a wired LAN. But as the speeds and capabilities of wireless LANs improve and blur the distinction between wired and wireless LANs, more and more companies are choosing wireless because of the inherent flexibility it provides. Wireless connectivity has serious security implications however, and most companies are horrified when they realise the full scale of these. That said, these can all be overcome with the right security knowledge and setup, which is why it is necessary to talk to an expert in this field.
Triplan work with our industry partners to supply, certify and maintain a range of structured/managed cabling solutions to suit a variety of different purposes – from the requirements of a small professional firm to the large scale wiring of a campus location. So whether your need is for a wired or wireless LAN, and regardless of whether this is a new network, or an extension of an existing network infrastructure, Triplan can advise on and install/configure the right network hardware and software, with all the related performance-enhancing tools, to ensure that the connectivity between your PCs and other networked devices is secure, efficient and cost-effective.
Cabling
Networks are all about connecting users together, storing data centrally, pooling printers, sharing Internet connections, etc. But it is all too easy to lose sight of how they are physically put together. They can be made to work much more effectively if you get this right; which is another way of saying that if you get it wrong you may hamper network performance needlessly. The range of permutations for network equipment is wide (cabling cabinets, patch cables, patch panels, floor/wall outlets, Cat5/Cat5e/Cat6, fibre etc) and selection is best based on the experience of seasoned professionals.
Another key issue is planning for the future. Perhaps you may be contemplating VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and common data cabling i.e. where your PCs and telephone share the same infrastructure. And while n ot every customer needs raised floors and flood wiring, they will want to know that when – rather than if – they expand, they won’t have to rip it all out and start again.
Triplan work with our industry partners to supply, certify and maintain a range of structured/managed cabling solutions to suit a variety of different purposes – from the requirements of a small professional firm to the large scale wiring of a campus location.
