CHAPTER 6 Networks and Networking: Linking the World
The Trend to Wireless The wireless notebook-based network has many advantages, not the least of which is that users can be online wherever they are within the office, whether in a conference room, the boss's office, or a corporate classroom. Traditional desktop PC-based networks tether knowledge workers to their workstations. All a company needs to install a wireless network is the wireless adapters that can be inserted into the PC card slots of notebook PCs and provide network access points throughout the building, which enable the wireless connections to the server computer(s). Wireless LANs offer up to 11 Mbps connections. Now hotels, and even airlines, are providing wireless networks that enable business travelers to enjoy the same high-speed connections and flexibility they enjoy when at the office.
The Private Satellite Network It's not for everyone, but some companies use private satellite networks for their data communications needs. For example, Shoppers Drug Mart, a $4.5 billion drugstore in Canada, uses a satellite network for Internet access, all business and administrative transmission of data, corporate training, the processing of credit card transactions, and streaming the music played in its 800 pharmacies. One of the advantages of a private satellite network is that it overcomes the hurdles associated with delivering broadband access over the "last-mile."