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Factors Affecting the choice of network - Coggle Diagram
Factors Affecting the choice of network
User Needs
Sharing Files
Once computers are networked, files can either be stored on the server, and any authorised person on the network can download them to their own computer
Sharing Resources
Printers, scanners, hard drives and other resources can all be shared. Sharing an Internet connection is one of the main reasons many networks are set up
Centralised Backup
files saved on the server can be backed up on an automatic schedule, for example daily, onto tape or other removeable device. The backup copy will be kept offsite
Making decisions concerning:
What type of network to set up
Suitability of different connection types
Security measures
Compatibility with existing systems
Specifications and Cost
Peer to Peer
For a home network, a peer-to-peer network may be a good choice because it is inexpensive to set up and not difficult to maintain
Users will still be able to share resources, but there is no central computer or backup and security is much weaker
It is not a good choice for a business.
Client Server
For a business, a client-server network offers the advantages of additional security, with files stored on the server.
A second major advantage is that backups are done centrally, probably on an automatic schedule, and so the individual users are less likely to lose work in the event of a catastrophe
It will be one person’s responsibility to
see that backup copies are stored off-site in a secure location such as the cloud
A client-server network will be more complex to set up and will need a professional to maintain it. Network users will not be able to change settings or access rights to particular areas these will all be set by the network manager
The cost of setting up a client-server system is much greater than the cost of setting up a peer-to-peer network.
Security
In many organisations, network security is a major concern. Personal data has to be kept secure by law and if its accidentally stolen or destroyed the consequences could be severe and there could be a fine
Connectivity
Devices in the network can be connected by Ethernet or fibre-optic cable, or wirelessly using WiFi.
If speed is a concern, then fibre-optic cable can be used throughout. Its greater cost will be offset by
increased productivity.
Security is always an issue, and data flowing through a fibre-optic cable cannot easily be intercepted.
On a factory floor, where machinery may spark or chemicals spill, fibre-optic cable is safer - it is
non-flammable and does not overheat.
User experience and Implementation
A new network can also be an opportunity to optimise a team’s performance and increase productivity. It may decrease individual workloads and result in better client service.
The level of user experience among employees in changing to a new system may be a factor. A team’s background and familiarity with change will have a bearing on implementation and acceptance of a new network system.
The timescales for implementing the changeover need to be considered. Training may be required. Ongoing support from the supplier is an important consideration, especially in the period immediately after implementation.
Efficiency and Performance
A network manager should have a well-defined testing strategy in order to actively manage the network. The manager needs to know how the network performs under normal operating conditions
If network users are reporting frequent problems, the manager needs to be able to evaluate what the problem is and where it is. He or she must determine the level of network services that users will find acceptable.
Network managers may receive complaints from users on a regular basis. These complaints may include poor access times, no access to resources or network downtime.
All of these features of a network affect the efficiency and performance of an IT system. In addition, the availability of a fast broadband connection is probably one of the most crucial factors.
Results of regular testing will be invaluable when deciding on upgrades such as the installation of new high- speed broadband or network configurations.
Productivity
A network may use a combination of wired and wireless connections. Wireless printers, for example, will require no cables to be run and can be situated anywhere within reach of an electrical outlet and the wireless access point.
Wireless all-in-one printers that can print from anywhere in the office will save employees time. An auto power feature which turns the printer on when a job is sent will save on electricity costs.
When connecting to the Internet, productivity will be severely hampered if no broadband connection is available. If a broadband cable already runs down the street outside the office, then it will be inexpensive to install a broadband connection to the Ethernet handoff in the office