Any organisation with more than a couple of computers can benefit from the advantages of a computer network:

• sharing a connection to the Internet
• sharing access to  the organisation's files and folders
• sharing use of other network resources such as a network printer

The alternative to a Wired Local Area Network is to use wireless networking technology to connect things together.  This works by transmitting the Ethernet packets of information using radio waves at a frequency of 2.4 GHz.  The usual configuration is to have a wireless router or access point as the central device to which all other talk.  The computers all need to be "wireless capable".  This is now the default situation with laptop computers - since Intel Centrino technology came along just about every new laptop has come equipped with wireless networking built in.  Desktop computers can be equipped for wireless networking by installing a wireless network card.  Some printers now come with wireless networking built in but it is not very common.

Advantages of wireless networking over wired networking include:

• no messy wires everywhere;
• you can move your laptop to any location and still be connected;
• it can be cheaper to get started.

Disadvatages of wireless over wired networking:

• it is much less reliable than wires;
• all the wireless devices share one lot of bandwidth;
• wireless network cards for desktops can be expensive;
• it has limited range and penetration through the walls and ceilings of your building.

If you ask the Telematics Centre to make a proposal for installation of a wireless Ethernet network we will first clarify your requirements, including:

• where one or more wireless access points can be located;
• how many laptops and how many desktop computers will be connected;
• if there are network printers that need to be connected.

Once these requirements have been clarified we will provide you with a written quotation (usually by email) covering the whole job.  When we have received your approval we will then:

• order the necessary wireless networking hardware;
• physically install the wireless access point(s) in an agreed location;
• install any wireless network cards in laptops or desktops;
• configure WPA security on the wireless network so no unauthorised computers can connect; 
• test and confirm everything is working;
• hand over any manufacturer documentation and disks to your staff onsite;
• fully document the work in our detailed documentation on your computer installations.

As usual, we take care of all parts of process for you, leaving you to enjoy your new wireless computer network.

Cost:  Telematics installation charge for a wireless network is always quoted on a per job basis as every job is unique and highly dependent on your building and the coverage required.