Why You Need a Local Area Network (LAN) – Part 1
Most appraisal offices are small business offices. And small businesses need every advantage they can get. One way to gain an advantage is through a local area network, or LAN. In this article we’ll discuss the pros and cons of local area networks. Next edition we’ll help you choose the right LAN and give you some tips and tricks – as well as some “traps” to look out for.
A LAN allows you to share “stuff” with the rest of the office. This sharing includes files, devices (like printers), telecommunications (like DSL lines), and more. Because they are more efficient, most LANs will pay for themselves. For example, the cost savings of having one printer for the entire office is obviously cheaper than having a printer for each PC. And the economies of scale, i.e., savings, goes up with each additional user; as your company grows, so will the value of your network. Here are some of the ways a computer network can help your business:
File sharing.
Ever been out in the field and needed a file that’s back at the office? With a LAN, you will be able to get that file via your laptop – from virtually anywhere (provided you’ve got your laptop with you, of course). A network makes it easy for everyone to access the same file and prevents people from accidentally creating different versions. And you won't have to worry about where you left that floppy disk!
Printer sharing.
If you use a computer, chances are you also use a printer. With a network, several computers can share the same printer. Although you might need a more expensive printer to handle the added workload, it's still cheaper to use a network printer than to connect a separate printer to every computer in your office. Additionally, you might be able to justify a printer with more features, such as one with color or fax capabilities, if it’s connected to several PCs.
Communicate and collaborate.
It's hard for people to work together if no one knows what anyone else is doing.
A network allows employees to share files, view other people's work and exchange ideas more efficiently. In a larger office, you can use email and instant messaging tools to communicate quickly and to store messages for future reference.
Get organized.
A variety of network scheduling software is available that makes it possible to arrange meetings without constantly checking everyone's schedules. This software usually includes other helpful features, such as shared address books and to-do lists.
Get online.
If you have several computers but just one phone line, a network makes using the Internet much easier. Several computers can share one modem to use the same Internet connection. Or you can even install a dedicated high-speed Internet connection (such as a cable modem or DSL) for your network.
Save your data.
You should know by now that it's vital to back up your computer data regularly. A network makes it easier to back up all of your company's data on one set of tapes, CDs or other backup systems.
Of course this isn't a complete list -- once you have a network, you'll probably find many other uses for it. And once you get used to the benefits of a network, you'll never look at your computer the same way again.
Resource: Allbusiness.com, a small-business advisory website.
Next Edition – Choosing a LAN, Part 2: Tips, Tricks and Traps.
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