Networking computers together (Sharing information)

Networking is the process where many can share one database at the same time. This "Sharing" may be with local computers in the same building called a LAN or Local Area Connection, WAN (Wide Area Network connection ) which can be internet based, or on a private network, and now Wi-Fi connection where the computers are not hard wired together, like a mobile phone, this type of connection can be Internet based or private network based.

LAN is the easiest connection to make. In a typical configuration a "Server" computer is designated. This computer need not have actual server software installed for users up to 15 but can be a ordinary PC with sufficient memory and speed. Typical ram memory is 256 megs for up to 5 users and 64 megs for every user there after to 15. In installations over 15 users it is recommended that Microsoft Server 2000, or 2003 be used. This will provide for up to 100 concurrent users, often requiring several gigabytes of Ram memory.

Setup involves giving the computers a common "Workgroup Name" and sharing the desired folders on a designated Server. It is unnecessary in the case of our MSDE - SQL engine to map the drive to a client computer as SQL detects its databases and attaches to them automatically.

WAN connections require specific IP address identification. Contact your IT person or call our support for help if you intend to use this type of connection.

There are security issues in the use of WAN connections, please see information in our Virus link on the left side of this page.