Network Switches For Business
Using switches is a great way to connect devices within your network and increase network capacity and speed. But these devices are not a cure-all for all problems. Before you install them, it is important to understand if your network will benefit from switching. You must first understand how they work and the purpose they perform in an office network. Understanding how your network is set up and how the hardware runs is always a good business practice.
What Is A Switch?
A switch is used to connect devices in your computer network such as printers and different computers that need to share information. They are fairly easy to install and not terribly expensive. An unmanaged switch can be used right out of the box and does not need to be configured; these are seen most commonly in home networks. A managed switch can be configured and has the capability of doing more than an unmanaged switch. Simply put, these devices work as a link between each of the pieces of hardware in your network; for example, each computer in your office can access the same files. These are important tools in digital communication in a successful network.
They are also used to manage a network that is adding more information. For example, when your business only uses two computers, you may get by with one switch. Once you have expanded and your network has grown, you may need to add an additional switch to handle the information that is flowing between devices.
Benefits Of Switching
Although a switch may be more expensive than a hub, they are increasingly popular for use in office networks. They are several reasons for this.
• Ease of installation
• Relieves network congestion
• Reduces collisions by separating collision domains
Each of these reasons makes a switch the logical device to use when in a business network. Switches will also help to make your network run faster, therefore increasing your productivity and the speed with which you can offer your service to your customers. Any time lag in your network reflects badly on your company to your customers. A switch can enable you to provide the best customer service to your customers with a faster and more efficient network.
If you own or manage a company, you may also be interested in the monitoring capability of a network switch. Switches allow you to monitor network usage within your company. This gives you control over who accesses which type of information at which time of the day. Staying involved and up to date on what is going on within the walls of your company is a huge part of being a successful manager; you can cut back the time you spend on employee observation with a switch that allows you to monitor your employee’s computers.
Consider Your Business
Any time you are investing in hardware for your business network, you will want to make an educated decision about the right brand and the right type for your particular network. An important part of installing switches in your network is knowing the benefits and how a switch can help to make your business more efficient and increase your levels of productivity. Stay involved in all decisions regarding your business network.
Chad Calimpong works with Dell and has been recognized locally and nationally for his photography and video documentaries. He enjoys cooking, baking, and has a passion for technology and computers. He currently resides in Austin, Texas with his wife and two cats.
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