A Small Business  Network Design and  Installation Primer

 
A Non-Dedicated Peer-to-Peer Network Primer:

The need to share files, printers and devices among several computers, commonly referred to as "Peer-to-Peer" or "P2P" is a simple process, but can be become very complicated and difficult to administer if not approached correctly from the outset. Careful thought should be given to a layout and plan for the network connections required, versus what can be accomplished.

Creation of a small business network is a simple process, given the nature of the latest versions of hardware and software on the market at this time. Most computers are now delivered with a network card either built into the system board or as an added plug in board. All that is required to connect multiple computers is the proper network cable or a wireless network support  kit.

The subject of "P2P" attracts much interest in the networking  community, even though many disagree on its exact meaning. "P2P" technology promises to radically change the future of networking, yet the concept has existed for years.

The "P2P" acronym technically stands for "peer-to-peer" computer networking, " P2P" is thus defined as:

"A type of network in which each workstation has equivalent capabilities and responsibilities. This differs from client/server architectures, in which some computers are dedicated to serving the others. "

This definition captures the traditional meaning of "peer-to-peer" networking. Computers in a workgroup, or home computers, are configured for the sharing of resources such as files and printers. Although one computer may act as the file server or FAX server at any given time, all computers on the network  generally could host those services on short notice. In particular, the computers will typically be situated near each other physically and will run the same networking protocols.

L.J. CRAIG & Associates, Inc. can assist your organization in determining if it's needs should include "peer-to-peer" networking, and if so, design and install a network that best fits those needs.