How much does it cost to install a network?

In general, the cost of the network is dependent upon the number of computers you wish to connect, their proximity to each other, and whether or not you will be installing a server to service the net.  Prices begin at under $200 for a fully installed and configured two-computer peer-to-peer network with cable/DSL router to share a broadband connection and with one year comprehensive support.

What exactly is involved with a network installation?

Let's look at a representative example: Consider a home network connecting two computers on opposite sides of the same wall for the purposes of sharing a cable or DSL broadband network connection.  Persona will provide and install a cable/DSL router, run 100Mbps Cat 5e cable from the router to both PCs and the cable modem, and configure all necessary operating system network and Internet settings.  The router provides connection sharing capabilities and Firewall protection for your network.

Most modern PCs come with a network port standard, but if either machine requires a 100Mbps Ethernet card, we provide and install these at very competitive prices.

I like the idea of wireless networking but I'd be concerned about the security and reliability of the network.

These are valid concerns.  Concerning security, Persona's policy is to implement 128-bit WEP and to provide a unique SSID for every wireless network we install to provide high-level security for your data transmissions.

Regarding reliability, we have installed many wireless networks successfully, but it is true that wireless networks can be "finicky".  Cordless phones, metal supports in walls, electronic equipment and operating system idiosyncrasies all provide obstacles of one sort or another to a smooth wireless implementation.  If you are considering wireless, call us for a free wireless feasibility study.  We'll set up a wireless access point and test the signal strength at various points throughout your home or office, then make a final recommendation.

Remember, Persona Technology stands behind every network we install!

Aren't wireless networks much more expensive than traditional wired nets?

They used to be.  Today, wireless equipment prices have dropped significantly.  Additional cost savings are realized by the reduced labor required to install wireless equipment versus running cable.  Wireless networks may still be a little bit more expensive than wired nets, but their added flexibility and scalability make them very attractive for the home or small office.

Aren't wireless networks slower than traditional wired nets?

Yes, wireless is generally slower than wired.  The current 802.11b standard offers a maximum rated throughput of 11Mbps versus 100Mbps for a wired FastEthernet network.  The new 802.11g standard is almost 5 times faster than 802.11b at 54Mbps.

However, this speed difference may not be an issue depending on how you plan to use your network.  Broadband Internet in this area has a maximum speed of 1.5Mbps.  If your primary purpose is to share an Internet connection, the bottleneck is your cable or DSL connection and not your network!  If you plan to transfer data between computers, consider that a 10MB file would take about one second to transfer on the "slow" 802.11b wireless network.  Conclusion:  Wireless is plenty fast for the home or office.

How can I tell you are qualified to service my network?

Persona Technology holds both CompTIA A+ PC Technician and CompTIA Network+ Professional Certifications.  Be sure to look for the CompTIA Certified seal when seeking professional PC or Network service.

Who can I call for more information about networks?

If you have any questions about networking your home or office, or if you'd like to arrange a wireless feasibility study, please call (252) 533-9100 or email info@personatechnology.com for an appointment!