Taking the worry out of
wireless
Q Is a wireless network secure?
A Yes. These networks are set up with an encryption
protocol, which keeps out unauthorised users. And when ntl:Telewest
Business begins to design a wireless LAN project we look at the
local environment, the structure of the building involved and the
local user community before installing the devices that send out
the wireless signals to your PCs , and build our findings into the
scheme. This means that even in a crowded environment like an
industrial estate, your network is kept secure from other wireless
users. Once the installation has been completed, it’s important to
manage the network to ensure that no short-cuts are taken that
might compromise the security set-up.
Q Will wireless technology cost more?
A Typically, it isn’t more expensive than other solutions.
In fact, it can be quite economical, because in a new-build or
network upgrade project it means there is no need to run cable
through your building. And, since going wireless can increase the
mobility of your workforce you may be able to make significant
productivity gains that contribute to your bottom line. Within a
wireless office, users have access to company information –
including email, contacts and access to company data – whether they
are in the presentation suite, a conference room or the café.
Q Will wireless put more pressure on my IT
department?
A This will depend on the resource you have
internally. But the honest answer is, in the initial stages of an
implementation, yes. This is because it will have to embrace and
understand a new technology, and decide the level of management
expertise it will deploy. Once the solution is up and running, it
should have no more of an overhead than a traditional cabled
solution. ntl:Telewest Business can work with you to decide how
much of the project your internal resource can handle and then
tailor a solution that provides any necessary support.
Q Is a wireless network as dependable as a physical
one?
A As with any network there are threats and
challenges that need to be managed in order to keep it working at
its best. There are a few risks specific to wireless – like
interference, changes in the local environment and software
compatibility – but detailed planning and careful risk assessment
will reveal potential weaknesses and deal with them before you are
up and running.
Q Will I be able to do everything through wireless that I
can now?
A All the functionality you get from a physical,
wired network is available from a wireless one. And, depending on
the stage of network development, going wireless could give you the
window of opportunity to add new capabilities to your business
– for instance by adding IP telephony or a Multimedia
solution to give everyone even greater freedom in how and where
they communicate.
Related Links