This must be addressed to avoid unwanted access to your network by hackers or unauthorised employees.  To protect against this you require a firewall.  If the firewall is correctly  configured it will block unwanted visitors whilst still allowing remote access by authorised and authenticated users.

Different permissions can be set up for each user thus allowing the Managing Director access to all data and programmes but the Secretary access to only the programmes and data that she requires to use.  Passwords should be sufficiently complex so that they can’t be easily compromised.  It is also a good idea to change them on a regular basis. This can be made compulsory.

Networks

Most organisations now use Cat 5e/6 structured cabling.  Cat 5e is mainly for 10/100 networks and Cat 6 is for 10/100/1000.  The 1000 is most commonly known as a Gigabit which is theoretically 10 times faster than a 100Mbit network.  Appropriate routers, patch panels  and switches should be purchased according to which type of network is required.   Page Computers can install the cabling and provide the parts.

Backup

A Smart UPS (uninterruptable power supply with SMART software) is a must for taking care of those small power fluctuations and in case of a major power out it ensures that the server is closed down in the correct manner whether or not the office is manned.  If a server is suddenly switched off then data can become corrupted. 

The data stored on the Server is usually the backbone of the Company and if for any reason this is lost the whole Company can be put in jeopardy.

Page Computers can assist you with this and help you to ensure that you have the correct backup procedures in place.
A disaster recovery plan is absolutely essential whatever the size of the Company.

It is vital that staff realise that all important data must be stored on the server to ensure that it is included in the Company backup procedure.  You would be surprised to find out how much data is stored locally on machines.

The backup data should be kept in a fireproof safe or offsite in case of fire or theft. 

One person should be responsible for ensuring that the backup occurs correctly on a daily basis as tapes stretch and external drives can fail rendering the data useless.

It is always wise to seriously think through what would happen to your Company if you had a fire or if all your equipment was stolen.  Would you be able to carry on trading next day?