In the modern world of interconnectivity and fast-paced, cyber-placed business transactions, businesses everywhere are turning to the Internet in order to compete with other businesses and reach their customers. In fact, a company can not survive in this era without a internet presence of some sort. This is especially true for small businesses who lack not only the funding for advertising and marketing, but also the foundations that larger companies have already created for themselves. Because of this, it is essential that all small businesses create a computer network as soon as possible. This article will help small business owners by explaining what a small business computer network is and what it can do and the differences between LAN and WLAN.
What is a Small Business Computer Network
A small business computer network is a network of computers and devices throughout an office building that are able to communicate with each other. Computers, printers, scanners, and other devices can all be a part of a computer network. A computer network is essential for a small business because the company will need to be able to keep track of every aspect of the business at all times and should be able to perform any task without leaving a specific location. This is not always required but it marks a milestone in which a company can know that it is performing at its best.
LAN
LAN, or Local Area Network, is a physical connection between computers and devices by means of an Ethernet cable. A LAN can be setup with minimal effort and can extend throughout an office or building. LAN generally has a good level of security because the only people accessing the network are the people within the network itself. With a LAN, users can run an Ethernet cable through a router or directly from the modem. LAN is efficient and reliable as it provides constant connection despite weather conditions or other events.
WLAN
A WLAN, or Wireless Local Area Network, is a wireless connection between computers and devices by means of a wireless router. A WLAN can also be setup with minimal effort but may be slightly more complicated than LAN for the inexperienced user. This is due to WLAN having more settings and control options that must be setup correctly before a wireless connection can be established. WLAN lacks the security of LAN because anyone within range of the wireless signal can pick it up. Users do have the option, however, of encrypting their wireless connection with a password or other security features. WLAN is decently stable but can be affected by weather conditions and objects that may block the wireless signal from reaching the computer in question. WLAN also requires more equipment than LAN as a wireless router is required and desktop computers will need to be fitted with a wireless adapter.
Cisco Small Business Pro SPA3102 Voice Gateway with Router
The Cisco Small Business Pro SPA3102 Voice Gateway with Router is excellent for small businesses because it includes both a voice gateway and a router in one device. The router will be needed for a wireless connection and the voice gateway can be used to make and receive calls over a VoIP network. VoIP is cheaper and more efficient to use than a standard telephone line and generally includes many features that aid the user in answering telephone calls and processing customer support applications. The device includes two Ethernet ports that can be connected to a computer or device via an Ethernet cable. The device, of course, also includes a separate Ethernet port so that it can be connected to a modem.
can get on internet directly through modem but when try to conect wireless router tells me has problem with modem router is a wireless g broadband wrt54gs i dont remember password or username tried to reset all but dont have software to reinstall