Case Study Network 1 - Simple Peer-Peer + Remote Access

Problem:

Small business with three workers at office and fourth worker working from home. All workers need to exchange documents and coordinate work schedules.

Figure 1 - Before

Solution:

Set up worker PCs at office into peer-peer LAN with email and common file space. Enable Dial Up Networking so that telecommuting worker can access network to exchange email and files.

Figure 2 - After

Details:

LAN consisted of 2 older machines, PCs that were upgraded to newer Windows version, and a new Pentium Class machine to host the Mailboxes, common file areas, dial up networking and provide print services for office workers. Customers oldest 286 PC was retired since it could not be upgraded.

Telecommuting position consist of Windows 95 Pentium PC with modem.

Customer Benefits:

• email between all workers
• shared files between all workers
• group calendaring
• shared Printer at office

What did it take:

• Windows upgrade 2 machines
• Memory upgrades in 2 machines
• LAN cards in 3 machines
• Hub and cabling at office
• Configure: email, Network, shared folders and printers, proprietary DOS applications used by the business, Dial-up Network and fax modems.
• Training: 3 Windows, Email & scheduling , 4 network concepts.
• 1 Pentium PC
• Com port sharing software on the LAN to enable internet access to all LAN desktops to the one machine with a modem.
• Installation

Total Implementation Time: 2 weeks