Summary

10 IT Essentials: PC Harware and Software Companion GuideCostWhen designing a network, cost is a consideration. Installing cables is expensive, but after aone-time expense, a wired network normally is inexpensive to maintain. Most of the deviceson a wired network cost much less than the devices on a wireless network.SecurityA wired network usually is more secure than a wireless network. The cables in a wired networkusually are installed in walls and ceilings and therefore are not easily accessible.Wireless is easier to eavesdrop. The signals are available to anyone who has a receiver.Making a wireless network as secure as a wired network requires the use of encryption.Design for the FutureMany organizations install the highest-grade cable available to ensure that their networkscan handle the network speeds that will be available in the future. These organizations wantto avoid expensive reinstallation of cable later. You and your customer must decide if thecost of installing a higher grade of cable is necessary.WirelessA wireless solution may be possible in places where cables cannot be installed. Consider anolder, historic building where local building codes do not permit structural modifications. Inthis case, installing cable is not possible, so a wireless connection is the only solution.Select the ISP Connection TypeThe ISP that you choose can have a noticeable effect on network service. Some privateresellers that connect to a phone company may sell more connections than allowed, whichslows the overall speed of the service to customers.An Internet connection has three main considerations:■■■SpeedReliabilityAvailabilityThis section describes ISP connection types and the advantages and disadvantages of each.Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS)A plain old telephone service (POTS) connection is extremely slow, but it is availablewherever there is a telephone. The modem uses the telephone line to transmit and receivedata.