A computer network is composed of multiple connected computers that communicate over a wired or wireless medium to share data and other resources. A simple computer network may be constructed from two computers by adding a network adapter (Network Interface Controller (NIC)) to each computer and then connecting them together with a special cable. Practical networks generally consist of more than two interconnected computers and generally require special devices in addition to the Network Interface Controller that each computer needs to be equipped with. Examples of some of these special devices are hubs, switches and routers. A network covering a small geographic area, like a home, office, or building is called a Local Area Network (LAN). Current LANs are most likely to be based on Ethernet technology. Networks make it easy for companies employees at more than one site to: Share files with each other Systematically back up data on a regular basis Share peripherals such as printer, fax and modems Communicate via email Access the Internet simultaneously The basic system configuration includes the following components: Server Network Switch Backup Unit Workstation Router Cables Software (Such as; Microsoft Windows® Small Business server 2003 R2) One style of LAN's that is used for small business networking applications is the client/server networks in which a network switch acts as the central communications device connecting workstations to the server. The server in the network enables users to access information and share peripherals without being dependent upon any of their systems. In addition, a backup can be installed into the server, allowing to back up data on both the server and all workstations. Client/server networks are typically used when there is a constant need to access large files and applications or when multiple users want to share peripherals. Basic configuration of small business network Server Operating Systems  Server operating systems (such as Windows® Small Business server 2003) provides messaging and collaboration, security-enhanced internet access, protected data storage, reliable printing, faxing and secure remote access. Remote Access Services lets connecting the server at the central office to computers running at any remote offices through cable modem via a public Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Remote Access

Remote access offers a wide range of security features including: · Authentication and authorization · Secure user authentication · Extensible Authentication Protocol · Data encryption · Network Access Quarantine Control · Caller ID · Remote access account lockout · Remote access policy profile packet filtering · Packet filtering for VPN remote access

Remote Access Connectivity

Remote access provides two different types of remote access connectivity: Dial-up remote access With dial-up remote access, a remote access client uses the telecommunications infrastructure (typically an analogue phone line) to create a temporary physical circuit or a virtual circuit to a port on a remote access server. Once the physical or virtual circuit is created, the rest of the connection parameters can be negotiated. Virtual private network (VPN) remote access. With virtual private network remote access, a VPN client uses an IP network to create a virtual point-to-point connection with a remote access server acting as the VPN server. Once the virtual point-to-point connection is created, the rest of the connection parameters can be negotiated.