The Benefits of a Computer Network

As a business gets larger it is essential to have the best possible communication between employees. This is can be achieved with a network installation. By sharing information such as application software, databases, the Internet and common files over a computer network it is possible to greatly improve efficiency. A computer network is not just a number of computers connected together with wires. When correctly set up, computer network installations provide their users with exceptional capabilities far greater than those of individual machines using separate software can do. The wired networks of the past are fast being replaced by wireless networks, giving businesses far more flexibility.

Communication and connectivity

Individual users within a building or workgroup can be connected into a local area network (LAN). Distant LANs can be connected together into wide area networks (WANs). Once connected, users can communicate with other users by electronic mail, minimizing the need to print hard copy and saving both time and money.

Data sharing

Perhaps the most important use of networking is the sharing of data. A good example of this is a school where all of the information about pupils and parents is stored in a database. Teachers and office staff use the database to look up or enter marks, sports results, addresses and so on. In a large business hundreds of employees can share up to the minute data where, without a network, it would have to be carried from place to place by hand.

Hardware sharing

When networked all of the users can share a single network printer or copier. All modern copying machines can be networked as printers and even have fax capabilities. There is no need for each user to have his or her own printer.

Internet access

All users on a network can share a common single internet link. The internet is an invaluable tool that has completely changed society. There are hardware devices that enable the network supervisor to allocate bandwidth to those users that need it. Filters can be used in the network setup to prohibit undesirable websites from being accessed.

Data security and management

A network environment enables supervisors to manage an organisation’s important data far better, since it can be stored in a single central fileserver rather than being spread out over many separate computers. It also makes it far easier to implement security measures and regular backups.

IP telephony

Today’s high speed broadband internet connections enable companies to make use of the latest IP telephony technology, giving a considerable saving over traditional telephone links.

To summarise, a computer network installation brings numerous benefits to any organization, including:

• Increased employee productivity
• Reduced communication costs
• Reduced office equipment costs
• Access to Resources at any time by any user
• Better security of company data.

If you would like to know more about network installation companies and network installations in Cape Town, contact us today by completing the enquiry form on the right hand side of the page or through our contact page.