Multi-Layered Approach to Small Office Networking

The growth of the internet over the past several years has made it an integral part of many small businesses' daily operations. Small business owners see the internet as a tool to help their business prosper. The internet provides ready access to information, suppliers, and customers via the web and e-mail. The growth of affordable broadband connections such as DSL and cable modems provides small businesses with affordable, always-on connections to the internet. Unfortunately, many business owners do not fully realize that there are potential downsides to this always-on connection. They are more concerned with growing their business, and securing their network is typically not in their skill set. This paper will address several areas that small business owners should consider as they deploy and grow their office network.