Networking 24 computers together (business)--looking for other options and ideas?

Question

Question says it all... I am starting a small business where I must network 24 computers together... I have a couple of options on the table, but I would like to see if anyone has any ideas.
1. They must all be networked in one network
2. The connection must be fast (not fast for internet, just for the network)
3. All 24 computers must be able to be on the network simultaneously (this is a must)

I am using Cat6 unshielded wiring (thanks to location and business type, shielded is not a necessity). Performance is key issue, so all suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

There's NO WAY I'd suggest wireless - it's subject to interference from everything from cordless phones to microwaves and other devices. Further, even when there is no interference, you typically see AT BEST 60% of the advertised performance. So a 54 Mb G router would see perhaps 30 Mbit throughput.

A wired connection using even 100 Mbit NICs would perform better, typically seeing 80% throughput, or almost 3x the performance of wireless. (TYPICALLY - your milage may vary).

I would suggest, if network performance is a top priority, get a QUALITY server with a SERVER CLASS Network Adapter and a MANAGED Gigabit Network Switch. Plug AT LEAST the server into a Gigabit port on the switch - the workstations can do 100 Mbit, though you can do Gigabit on them too (costs will be higher if you use an all Gigabit switch).

Also, you need to pay attention to the server's disk-subsystem. The hard disk has to be able to feed data to the network fast or your gigabit network could perform like a 10 Mbit network. It really depends on what you are needing to use, but the FASTEST disk subsystem will involve a RAID 10/0+1 and multiple 15K SCSI/SAS hard drives in a hardware RAID.

For 24 computers, I would recommend getting Windows Small Business Server 2003. It's easy to manage and provides many features including Exchange at TREMENDOUS discounts over retail prices of non-SBS versions. There are a few restrictions with SBS, but they are not typically going to affect the small business.

For more information on SBS, you can check out my SBS page here:
http://www.lwcomputing.com/tips/static/sbs.asp

Quick Note: I'm 100% in favor of using Linux and other open source technologies - IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCED in using and managing them. If you're not, then your support costs will RAPIDLY eat up any savings on licensing you may realize when you choose open source.

Answer 2

Since you are using Cat6 then why not go with Gigabit NICs and switches. Setup a doctor's office that way, they have three servers, a scanner, about 12 printers and over 40 computers all without any lag to the resources. The connection to the internet does not need to be Gigabit since you are not worried about that speed.

Good luck.

Answer 3

CAT 6 wiring and Gigabit for sure!

Being a linux nut I would tell you to at least consider it as your server - it will save you $$ in software and is less likely to need continuous admin services.

Unless you are experienced you will need professionals to setup the initial installation. (Same is true for SBS if you go that route)

Check out OpenExchange http://www.open-xchange.com/
You will be surprised at the price Open-Xchange Server 5, Small Business Suite: $ 389 You can try it out online.

Just a thought, the OS that it runs on is OPEN Source also.
Performance wise this sort of blows the doors off the normal SBS.

Answer 4

Hmm in my oppinion i would go wireless..
but a 100kbps Switch or two?
or three even
or search around for a 100kbps hub but i think the switch is the best idea.