Setting up internet access in a cafe that is wired for phone service but not cable.?

Question

Budget is tight..
What type of system would be best? Terminal-to-host, file server, or client/server?

Which protocol and networking switching device would be best for five computers and wireless computers?

Answer 1

You are going to have to setup some sort of broadband connection. I would go with DSL in your situation, because it uses existing phone lines, and is cheaper than cable. It also has enough bandwidth to support multiple computers accessing the internet over a router. You don't need a switch, you need a broadband router. If you have att, you should sign up for AttYahoo DSL. They can send you a 2wire DSL modem/router. It is an all in one piece of equipment, so you don't need a modem and a router separate. I believe the wireless equipment will run about $99. If you want, you can just get a DSL modem from att, and purchase a D-Link, Linksys or Belkin wireless router on your own. You can get them at Wal-mart and they run from $30 - $60.

Answer 2

Very hard to answer with limited information. At first blush, if all you need is to attach five computers within the business to an Internet connection, then a "server" is not a requirement for this. A properly configured Linksys Gateway router will do the job purchased for less than $60 at Wal-Mart. If you need more connections than the Linksys provides, a small 100 Base-T switch for less than $20 for 8 ports can be plugged into the Linksys. With only five computers in the network, unless you have a special need for one, you shouldn't need a server. Sharing of basic files and printers and whatnot can be done peer-to-peer.

If you are considering adding free Internet access for patrons, you need to make absolutely certain that the network your business computers are on is not the same network that the wireless for the customers is on. You would be opening your business machines up to unacceptable security risks. You can still let them use the same Internet access as your business computers without granting access to your business network. If this is what you're trying to do, a simple Linksys box may not be enough. You'll need something like a small router from Netopia/Cayman, SMC, Linksys, etc.. Something that will allow you to configure each port on the back as individual Ethernet Interfaces. You'll then setup one interface for the customers, and one for your business network. If you don't have Internet access yet, and you are considering some form of broadband, talk to the potential provider. They will usually have a "business" class service that will include a router like I spoke of. Hope that helps.