Why Have Networks?
Why can't we simply do our
business on a day to say basis on standalone machines, without enlisted the
services of networks? The answer to that question is simple, networks
provide so many benefits, that they simply cannot be ignored. Granted, their
design, implementation and cost, do afford us barriers, but these barriers
are far from being insurmountable. In fact, with correctly skilled
professionals in place, the barriers are really not barriers at all. The
only real obstacle is actually cost. However, the benefits far outweigh the
consequences imposed by cost.
Consider the benefits:
· Data Sharing
- Groups of users are able to exchange information routinely and quickly
from one individual to another. This could be a detailed report created by
an employee in the UK and accessed by another in New York, saving
considerable amounts of time and money.
· Application Sharing
- Groups of users can get access to the set of applications installed to the
server. This eliminates the need to install programs on multiple machines.
Also, the server is able to keep track of how many users are accessing any
program, and can prohibit access to users as licensing permits.
·
Device Sharing -
Groups of users are able to take advantage of printers, scanners, fax
machines and other devices that can be attached to a network. Companies can
buy much fewer devices and spend more on each one, so that better
capabilities, and higher levels of service are available. Also, it means
that costly devices will be utilised more in a shared environment, thus
justifying their high costs.
· Communication
- E-Mail allows users to communicate via text massages, making communication
between users fast, easy, and efficient. · Centralisation - All data is
stored centrally. This can include items like reports, help guides,
templates and curriculum material like assessments and tutorials in an
education environment.
·
Compatibility - Since
software applications are installed and maintained centrally, it means that
users will have access to a standard set of tools and will eliminate diverse
formats. Upgrades carried out by administrators need only be performed once
on the server and the new software is available to all on the network
·
Security - Each user
can only gain access to a network by virtue of an account. Each machine will
display a screen asking the user for a username and password before gaining
access to the network and its resources. Also, the ability to apply
permissions on shared items and data items, prohibits users from gaining
unauthorised access to sensitive materials or devices that they are not
permitted to use. Accounts can also be configured to force users to change
their password at regular time intervals, and prevent them from logging onto
certain machines or at certain times.
·
Internet Access -
With the proper equipment and software in place, it is possible to connect a
network to the Internet either as part of the Internet, or to simply allow
users to access the Internet from their place of work. This is advantageous,
since it gives users a much wider base for acquiring information and other
resources like drivers and software utilities etc. |
