The transition from stand-alone systems to a network is an important one for a small business. If it is implemented correctly, the business and the employees will benefit from easier access to shared resources. Some of the benefits of networking include:

• Easier access to files: Users can access files one each others' computers. Or all data can be kept on a main server for everyone to access.
  

• Shared access to printers: Anyone can print to any printer. Or one high-volume printer can be installed in a central location for everyone to use.
  

• Shared Internet access: The Internet connection from a single modem (or high-speed connection) can be shared out to everyone on the network. Each user can have full-time Internet and email.
  

• Easier data backup: If all your data is on a file server, or if it is located on many machines, the network will allow you to back it all up to one tape drive or CD burner.
  

A Sample Network:

Here is a sample implementation of a network in an office with 4 stand-alone computers. All of the prices and approximate and would vary depending upon the exact circumstances. This is what the network would look like: