network software?

Question

Does any1 knows wheather, network of 14 pcs,a switch and server need a special software to manage it?and if i have a wireless/cabled laptop that need to access the network what will i need to make that happen?, pls help

Answer 1

Well, depends on what the system owner needs. Most servers, since you didn't say what operating system, have some management ability built into them. Windows SBS has alot built into it as does Linux (if installed correctly).

What "management" do you need to do? What programs are already installed on the server and how the system is used is fairly important question to answer prior to asking about management. If it basically is a file server then you don't need much in the way of management tools. If however it is used as a proxy, gateway, exchange, etc you might need a little more.

The one thing you do need is anti-virus control for all users just to be sure all 14 terminals are getting updates. A laptop for "management" should be fine, what you need once again depends on the OS and how and what the server is used to accomplish.

All that being said, some sysadmin experience would be good to have or at least consult with one, to get the best answers for your situation.

Answer 2

That's a pretty small network (in general terms) so you won't need any special network management software. As for the wireless laptop you'll need a Wireless Access Point/Wireless Gateway. This is a device which is hard-wired to the network and channels wireless communications.

Answer 3

Setting up and managing networks can be daunting and a little complicated, especially if your pcs don't share the same operating system. Some software that might help
Network Magic
http://www.helponthenet.com/
Homenet manager
http://www.homenetmanager.com/