 Notebook PCs can now outperform desktops
Today's notebooks can do anything a desktop can — and many things that a desktop can't. Like desktop PCs, notebooks now offer fast processors and large hard drives. But notebooks can boost productivity by allowing you to work without confinement to your desk. In fact, notebooks allow you to easily take information and present it to clients just about anywhere you go.
Notebook prices have dropped considerably in recent years. Many businesses are finding that it makes more sense to buy notebooks instead of desktops. If you consider the level of productivity made possible by a notebook with wireless connectivity, you might discover it's a worthwhile investment. Keep reading to learn how the combination of a notebook PC, a wireless network and a remote-access server can pay huge productivity dividends.
 Increase the capability of notebooks with Wi-Fi technology
Most notebooks today incorporate wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) technology. Wi-Fi products operate on radio frequencies, allowing users to access the Internet anywhere there is an accessible signal. To support the mobile employee's communication needs, Wi-Fi hotspots have popped up in hotels, cafes, airports and conference centers across the country.
If you don't already have a network set up at your office, Wi-Fi can be beneficial there, too. Wi-Fi simplifies creation and management of networks by eliminating the need to run cables to every notebook and desktop on the network. If you don't already have a network, Wi-Fi might be the most cost-effective way to get one.
Wireless network installation has been streamlined over the years. You can now buy Wi-Fi kits that include everything necessary to set up a wireless network: PC cards, Wi-Fi transmitters and receivers, and a wireless access point. Be sure to purchase a wireless kit produced for small businesses. Consumer Wi-Fi kits definitely cost less, but they do not offer the levels of security necessary for your business.
Also, try to stick with the same manufacturer for each component of your wireless network. This ensures greater compatibility among components within your infrastructure.
Provide remote access to your network
Employees who work offsite will need access to e-mail and data stored on servers at the office. To allow access, you will need at least one remote-access server. These servers typically cost between $2000 and $3000 depending on the processor speed and hard drive space. You have numerous choices of operating system software for your remote-access server including Linux, UNIX, Novell and Microsoft's Windows Small Business Server 2003, which includes Exchange software for managing e-mails and accessing shared files via a Web browser.
You will need to install virtual private network (VPN) software on each notebook to allow direct access to your network. VPNs allow secure connections to your network server so that employees can download e-mail directly to their notebook's e-mail program and access files stored on your servers.
Protect your entire network with multilayered security
Today's network security products go a long way to protect confidential company data. Many manufacturers are packaging multiple forms of protection into single devices, often referred to as "multifunction security devices." Because multiple protections reside in a single form factor, they deploy easily and require less management.
Your CDW account manager can help you find the notebook that is right for your business, then help you with customized network and security products to create a dependable, secure and productive solution.
For more information, contact your account manager, %%AM_FNAME%% %%AM_LNAME%%, at %%AM_PHONE%%.
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