How to set up a small business computer network?
Setting up a small business computer network today is fairly easy. A reasonable amount of knowledge of networking basics will assist a small business owner to make well informed decisions when trying to set up a computer network.
Most computer network already includes routers, which connect one network to another. There is also broadband gateway or modem, which accesses the Internet, and then there are switches, which is the link between computers and routers that allow multiple connections between computers. All that a small business owner needs is an internet connection from a local Internet Service Provider (ISP)
Setting Up A Small Business Computer Network
Following is a brief overview for setting up a small business computer network:
- Decide on an Internet connection from an Internet service provider – Choose from cable, dial-up, DSL and satellite broadband services. Make sure you choose an Internet Service Provider that is reliable and provides quick customer support so that your network can operate properly.
- Select a wired or wireless network and comparable hardware – Decide on the type of network that best meet your needs. Do you want to go wireless? This option is best suited for laptop users. Or do you prefer wired network? Wired network is a bit safer and seems to be more reliable than wireless network. However, the choice to go wired or wireless is basically up to you and what is best for your small business.
- Is the network adapter compatible? Make sure the network adapter is compatible, if not obtain one that is. A Universal Serial Bus (USB) network adapter is the preferred choice. If the USB network adapter comes with a software CD, use the instructions that is included when installing the software.
- Getting started by setting up the network - The Internet connection is automatically shared between computers when the network is up and running.
Setting Up Wireless Small Business Computer Network
If you choose to go wireless, which is great for laptop users and small business offices that like to roam about without restrictions, then setting up a wireless network is practical. Just make sure the laptop computers support Wi-Fi networking.
Follow these three simple steps for setting up your wireless network:
- Step #1. Choose the wireless equipment
- Step #2. Connect and configure the wireless router
- Step #3. Connect the computers and devices.
Setting up a small business computer network is fairly easy to do especially for those with some knowledge of computers and networking basics. You do not have to be a computer geek or a computer expert to do this yourself; however do not hesitate to get professional help if you need to.

