SERVICES :: Networking - Introduction

Networking is the computer term used to mean linking computer and other devices to each other. Through linking these devices you are able to share files, send email, share printers, view web pages and so on. Originally networking meant joining these devices by cables, but more recently includes linking devices by optical fibre, infrared and radio waves, that is wireless networking. The largest example of a networking is the Internet, a global network of linked devices.

Structured cabling is a term closely associated with networking, and refers to a specific kind of wiring that permits an office phone system and computer system to work using the same cabling. This permits you to locate and relocate staff computers and telephones within your office.

- Our skills and experience

Compology understands networking from the simplest network linking one device to another, right through large corporate networks linking tens or hundreds of computers and devices together and to the internet.

We can help your business with it's network requirements, be it designing a new network infrastructure or by supporting and enhancing your current network. Some examples of the sort of work we can do:

•  Plan a network layout for a new office, and install it



•  Convert from an old coax or Appletalk network to a new TCP/IP network



•  Troubleshoot connection problems and solve them



•  Link an office to the internet, and enable web access and email for all staff members



•  Link PCs to Mac and vice versa to allow file sharing



•  Centralise file and email storage to enable better security and backup



•  Link existing non-networked computers to a new or existing office network

We understand networks, if you have a problem that isn't described, please do contact us, it's likely we can solve it.

- How networking can benefit your business

Most businesses are already aware of the benefits a network can bring, but may not always fully utilise these features. Some of the most frequent benefits seens are below:

•  Share Files. This permits a central location to store files, which in turn means that only one area needs to be backed up.



•  Email other staff members, plus anyone on the internet. Increasingly this is a must have facility for business to remain competitive. Centralised messenging permits further benefits, such as being able to access other staffs mailbox when out of the office, or sharing a calendar or resources such as a meeting room. Also see our section Services>Servers.



•  Access your email when out of the office. This requires a fixed internet connection in the office, readily available in broadband enabled areas.



•  Share your accounts data. Market leader Sage Accounts allows several people to access the accounts records simultaneously using a network.