Was wondering what is required to set up a network.

[JacobG]

I work for a small business and was wondering how hard would it be to setup a network? We are attempting to be able to access certain files on one computer on multiple computers and we are trying to print from one printer from multiple computers in the office.

There's a total of about 8 computers. What do we need to get something like this accomplished? Is there any guides that you guys suggest me taking a look at?

Thanks,

Jacob G.

 

[zigzag3143]

I work for a small business and was wondering how hard would it be to setup a network? We are attempting to be able to access certain files on one computer on multiple computers and we are trying to print from one printer from multiple computers in the office.

There's a total of about 8 computers. What do we need to get something like this accomplished? Is there any guides that you guys suggest me taking a look at?

Thanks,

Jacob G.

Wired is simpler

from ISP>>>modem>>>>router>>>>>all pcs.

If all the computers h ave Ethernet connections and virtually all do, and they are within reach (about 30 feet) of each other you can simply plug Ethernet cable into the LAN port of each and the other end into a router.

I assume all pc's are running windows (hopefully win 7)


If you give us more info we can be more specific.


Wifi is reasonably simple as well but there are a few more things to deal with.

 

[Qdos]

With eight computers, plus a possible network printer, you'd be unlikely to get a suitable router (unless you want to buy rackmounted kit) as most have no more than 4/5 LAN sockets. Consider adding an eight way gigabit switch.

That said take a look at what Mikrotik Routerboards are out there.

 

[JacobG]

The computers are all windows 7. They are all connected through ethernet. What other kind of information do you need?

 

[JacobG]

Can't i just connect the ISP Modem to a network switch with 8 or 16 ports?

 

[Orbital Shark]

Hi, welcome to the forums

If all the computers are Wireless and, as you say, Windows 7 then the following tutorial can help you

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/43961-homegroup-create.html

You will have to set up the printer based on it's documentation

 

[zigzag3143]

Can't i just connect the ISP Modem to a network switch with 8 or 16 ports?

Of course you can. Routers offer a few advantages, like NAT (network address translation), a firewall, etc.