You might think that starting a small business during the pandemic is a crazy idea, but there are people who have started their own businesses during COVID-19. Whether your plan is to operate your own business out of a spare bedroom or to set up shop in a small office somewhere, you will need a business network. Housing all of your company data on a laptop is asking for trouble that you can’t afford to encounter. Choosing to set up a business network will help you ensure that business transactions are secure and organized. Here are some tips for choosing a small business network, including the hardware you will need from reliable HP Canada servers to security measures that ensure your data is protected.
Start with the Router
Routers make it possible to send and receive data. That will prove invaluable when it comes to making sure the data can flow easily through the network and to the intended destination. In order to choose the right router, make sure it comes with a higher quality multi-core processor.
You also want to think about memory. Don’t settle for anything less than 128mg of RAM, even for a small home operation. You can rest assured that it won’t go to waste.
Consider the Kind of Server You Need
A server is a repository for all things related to the business. You want one that will make it possible to house software programs, lots of data, and also provide easy access for multiple users.
There’s also the matter of thinking about the amount of HPE server memory present with the server. There should be enough memory to house data and to allow the server to process several requests at the same time.
It also helps to invest in a server that is capable of being upgraded with more memory. Doing so means you’ll get more years of use, especially if your business grows faster than you anticipate.
Security for Your Business Network
While you want easy access to the data stored on the network, unauthorized individuals should never receive that access. To that end, pay close attention to the security measures that are put in place. These measures include how the firewall is structured.
Do remember that you can invest in additional software that strengthens the protections included with the server. Choosing this approach adds more protection for the data without making it any harder for you to access the programs residing on the server.
Look into the Options for Switches
Capacity and the number of ports are two elements that must be considered as you select a switch for your new network. There should be enough gigabits present to make connecting to the network simple and fast. It also helps to ensure there’s enough capacity to handle any inbound and outbound data transfers without slowing the network down.
In terms of ports, think beyond what you may want to connect to the switch right now. Think about what you may want to connect a year, two years, and five years from now. In the event that you still have the same switch, there should always be at least one more port that you can use. Remember to check the type as well as the number of ports included.
There are other elements to consider as you prepare to launch your new network. Start with these basic tips for choosing a small business network and work from there. Never hesitate to ask for help from a professional. In the end, you’ll have a network that’s capable of growing right along with the business volume.
You might be interested in reading, “Should You Invest in Real Estate during a Pandemic?”
