It is suggested to use a wireless router and switches for the network. As there are only 50 computers, you can opt for a router and two 24-port network switches. The server and one computer can be connected to the router directly.
The other computers can be connected to the switches.
* If you have a broadband connection, connect your cable modem to the router using the Ethernet cable.
Place these two network devices in the location which can be accessed easily because all the workstations have to be connected to this point with the network cable.
or
If you would like to connect to the network wirelessly, the router should be in a center point so that all the workstations get a strong signal.
* If you are using a wired connection, conect the network switch into the open Ethernet ports on back of the router. This will give you additional ports.
* Now, run ethernet cables from each workstaion to the switch. From there, connect you wireless network to make sure that you get an internet connection.
If it is wired conection, ensure that you set the IP address in each workstation with the server setting.To do so:
Click Start ->Run or hold Windows+R,
Type ncpa.cpl
Control Panel window would appear.
Click Network and Sharing Center.
Click Change adapter settings.
Click on the connection and click Properties.
Click Internet Protocol Version 4(TCP/IPv4)Properties.
You can either select --Obtain IP address automatically(where IP addresses are automatically assigned for each workstation)and select
Obtain DNS server address automatically.
or
Select Use the following IP address (In this case, the IP and DNS information is provided by the Internet Service provider).
This would setup a network.
Please check the manual provided with the router to configure the router.
It is also suggested to ensure that you setup security for your router.
The reason for using routers as the main device is because routers are the smartest. Routers perform two important tasks:
DHCP and NAT
DHCP-Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol is the way dynamic IP addresses are assigned.
NAT- Network Address Translation is the way router translates IP addresses of packets across the Internet or the local boundary.
When switches are considered, it can be managed or unmanaged switches.Switches provide a more structured network.An managed switch can be accessed onsite or remotely and can be programmed by the manager.16 port managed switches are available from CISCO and Dell. An unmanaged switch can be used for home or smaller networks where 24-port switches can be used.
Each system would be individually connected to the network switch in the network, so that even if a single system fails, there would be no breakdown in the network.
