nCity Networking

Networking defined:: A network consists of two or more computers connected together to share files. A two-Mac network requires nothing more than an ethernet cable, with File Sharing options active. Add a router, and four computers (or more) can share files, a printer and an internet connection. Add a switch or two, and the network changes from a star configuration (four nodes gathered around the router) to a bus layout (nodes strung out in a line). Add a few servers, and network patterns are repeated until you have the World Wide Web or internet. An intranet or local area network (LAN) is probably what we're dealing with here; a small network around the home or office, either wired or wireless.
: Wireless networks are handy for covering a limited distance without having to drill holes and string wire, especially if notebooks are involved. The most common type of wireless network starts with a broadband modem to a wireless router at the "hub" of a star layout. Wireless routers have hard-wired ports, too, so these are usually connected to the nearest desktop Mac(s) while the router's wireless signal is available to any notebooks within range, sometimes called a mesh network.

Setup File Sharing:: You have many options regarding the type of files to be shared (or not), which volumes will appear on the network, and what level of access will be allowed for each user. If you plan a wireless network, you'll have encryption and security concerns to deal with, too, unless you want to provide an open network to anyone who may happen to be within range. Connecting to a network requires that you setup File Sharing on each machine.

Open System Preferences (under Apple menu or icon located in Dock) and click the Sharing icon. This opens the File Sharing pane (illustrated below). Starting File Sharing might take a moment or two, so be patient..... Start File Sharing, then decide which services you wish to share with other computers. Each connected computer has a name; The two options allowed here (checked) allow access to server's files and server's internet connection (web sharing). Options selected here must also be allowed under Sharing pane's adjacent Firewall tab. (This firewall is part of OSX, not to be confused with any additional firewalls that might originate from routers or other external devices.) If you find you need additional services, you will be notified when they are encountered and this pane is where services are turned on or off. The two shown here are a good place to start. File Sharing pane, Services tab. Be sure you also check settings under the Firewall tab. When File Sharing has been activated and machines are properly connected, each computer will appear by name under Network in the Finder window (above hard disk icons), in this case "Lisa.local." If Lisa has multiple hard disks, you'll also see a list of drives which you can connect to. These Network options are also listed under the Finder's Go menu (below). As you might imagine, setting up a computer network involves making numerous choices involving many options and countless technicalities, far too many for a thorough explanation here. We'll be happy to discuss networking options with you, suggest vendors and equipment, and assist with network design, onsite, online and on paper. Give nCity a call!


Do-it-yourself design consultation:: If you can dream it up, you can probably do it. It's just a matter of getting a signal from here to there, right? Personally, I prefer a hard-wired network; it's secure (no encryption to deal with, no new passwords or privileges), it's simple (once you're done stringing wire), and it's reliable.
: Wireless networks are pretty doggone cool, too. These include everything from an amplified 10-mile line-of-sight directional dish, to the legendary Pringles can antenna. Typical home wireless networks start with a broadband modem connected to wireless router (sometimes combined into a "gateway device"). Mac notebooks using Airport are setup to detect wireless networks automatically.
: It can all get rather complicated, tho, and it's easy to get bogged down in technical details when trying to decide on the best network configuration for a given purpose. Use proper cables and connectors designed for network purposes, place base station in the most advantageous location for maximum range, and route cables carefully. No shortage of details to consider.
: If you're considering a wireless network, please pick up a book on the subject before committing to anything. The Technical section has a link to one of the best books around on the subject of wireless networking, and NevCo Connections page includes a lot of info about wireless cards and local broadband providers.

nCity in-house network design:: We'll be happy to help design a network from the ground up. Tell us what you'd like to accomplish and we'll discuss all sorts of LAN configurations, and the pros and cons of each type. Range considerations, equipment options, software and server options, as well as security concerns, encryption, and access. Bring us your floor plans and diagrams, some idea how many nodes you expect to have, your specific goals, and we'll have at it.
: I highly recommend using Airport equipment instead of third-party devices (which may be cheaper) for three reasons:

Airport cards are built-in to notebooks, which means no dongles hanging out of USB ports and no external power supplies required.
Built into OSX, no drivers or additional software is required. Airport updates arrive along with System updates.
Ease of use. The setup process couldn't be easier, and operation is virtually automatic.
Okay, four reasons: Quality of hardware, versatility and compatibility are unmatched.

Analyzing network connections:: We start with a lot of questions about computers and network equipment involved, network topography and type, software and System versions. We'll want specifics regarding network operation, any recent changes, and all available info about the problem at hand. Next, we check for software updates, hardware compatibility and specs, and research any issues that might be involved, based on information gathered. When we've gained a fair understanding of all these factors, only then can we work on finding the proper solution.

Onsite network troubleshooting:: Network troubleshooting is one of only two reasons we ever make house calls (the other being major installations, which almost always include network setup).
: Testing a failed network usually involves testing individual devices, including one or more computers, either by analysis or by substitution. As with almost any system bus, efficiency is often determined by the slowest (most limited) device on the bus, or network. For example, early 802.11b devices cannot use the current 802.11n standard, so all devices have to downshift to accommodate the older (slower) 802.11b protocol. The only solution for some of these problems is to upgrade, replace or abandon the older device.
: It's also important to distinguish between actual network malfunction and the possibility of an application program failure. Virus infections still affect PCs, and certain email programs are notorious for being finicky on a network. We'll try alternatives apps, measure efficiency, then present possible solutions. If it comes to a choice between improving the network by switching to a new application - versus - keeping the familiar app at the cost of improved efficiency, that choice is all yours. If it's possible, we'll find a way to suit your needs.
: Neatness counts, too. Cables are checked for continuity, wireless for signal strength and coverage, connectors are checked, and splices repaired. Any materials necessary to setup or repair a network will be obtained as needed, billed in advance, and supplied at cost; we don't maintain any inventory here at nCity's (small) shop, and we're not retail, so if you'd prefer to obtain materials yourself we certainly don't mind.

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