Frequently Asked Questions

 

Here are some answers to some of our commonly asked questions. Need more details, then please feel free to Contact Us.

Q : What Is A Mobile Data Network ?

How if this different from my wireless home or wireless business network?

A mobile data network is a network that your standard mobile phone or smart phone operates off. The network is generally transmitted Australia wide providing there is mobile coverage in the area. These days the 4G mobile data network, offered by larger carriers such as Telstra and Optus is transmitted throughout most major cities allowing smart phones and mobile computers (with a built in mobile network modem) to connect and access the internet.

 

Q : What Is A Wireless Access Point ?

I have heard people mention it but what does a wireless access point do and do I need one?

A wireless access point acts like a traditional network hub for all wireless devices on a network. It joins all the devices such as computers, printers and smart phones wirelessly.

 

Q : Can I Have Wireless At The Office Or Home ?

Now that you know what a wireless network is, can I have a wireless network installed at my home or office?

Yes! A wireless network can generally be setup anywhere effectively. There are however factors that may interfere with a wireless network installation and they are devices that use similar frequencies ranging from cordless phones to even microwave ovens! In that case it might just require you to move the device or wireless access point to another room or location for less interference. Our staff will always recommend using wireless networks at the office as more of a “convenience” network rather than primary. Seeing as wireless networks are susceptible to interference and performance issues, it is not good practice to base your entire data network on this type of infrastructure. In an office environment, wireless networks are more recommended for use with smart phones and / or mobile devices. Wireless networks are also generally used when mobility across the work place or home is required.

 

Q : Is A Wireless Network Secure ?

Can anyone access my network that is in range and steal my data? What if they have “cracked” my password?

Yes! A wired network is always the most secure and also most reliable. Wireless networks can be configured to be “almost” as secure. All data transmission can be encrypted with an encryption key allowing only known machines to receive and decrypt this information. Access lists can also be configured to grant access to only certain devices across your network. Other devices not a member of the “Access List” will NOT be allow to connect or transmit data even if they have the correct wireless access password.

 

Q : Cloud Computing A Little Cloudy ?

“Cloud Computing” is used everywhere, but what does it actually represent?

Cloud computing is the new buzz word that has in recent years exploded onto the world market. People have began referring to just about any online service to be using “the cloud”. As I write this FAQ, I even heard someone saying their home security system is “on the cloud” – so what the heck is cloud and where can one draw the line?

Cloud computing refers to a pool of computing resources that can be leveraged from anywhere, anytime over a network typically the internet. The cloud service is delivered as a “SaaS” (Software As A Service) to the end user without the overheads of dedicated hardware and software for the client to otherwise have to provide themselves.

So basically speaking the CLOUD COMPUTING term can be used in many applications where they are typically hosted “somewhere” on the internet.

 

Q : How Can Cloud Computing Save My Business Money ?

Is it actually cheaper for my business to use the cloud?

Which ever way you look at it, Cloud Computing is cheaper. Although on the surface it may appear you are continually paying each month for something you could possibly buy yourself “in-house” and only pay once off, this is not the case. You need to compare apples with apples and oranges with oranges. Are you comparing performance? reliability? overheads? speed? up time? business continuity? backups? offsite data and server replication between the two solutions? Add up and compare all the features and then assume your “in-house” system will need to be replaced after 3 years. There are many more aspects to cloud computing than meets the eye. Only then you will realize that cloud computing can save you up to 80% on IT expenditure and overheads by giving you a system that is an “on demand” service you don’t need to maintain or up keep, a system that follows you where you or your business goes and is always there good times and bad.

Cloud computing is also scalable and in today’s volatile business environment, it is the perfect option during ramp up or ramp down production cycles. If you require more licenses, you add them onto your agreement. If you decide business is quiet and you need to scale down, you can just as easily remove them from your agreement.

 

Q : Is My Cloud Secure ?

The number one question in cloud computing, is my data safe and secure from cyber hackers?

Simple answer is Yes! You will find your cloud computing environment has better security measures in place than your own in-house system. Large “Cloud Computing” environments are normally armed with enterprise class security systems. See for yourself, an example in Perth, www.perthix.com. Physical security is state of the art as the center is armed with layers of biometric scanners, security doors, CCTV, monitored access not to mention military grade bullet proof glassing. The center is also protected with fire proof systems Perth business could only dream of owning. Can you imagine any Perth offices with better security?

As far as network and data security is concerned, these systems are protected by state of the art CISCO firewall / routers and switches with additional layers of software based firewalls in place. Our systems have automatic blacklisting and shunting in place coupled with advanced access list firewalling. Your cloud computing environment is also completely isolated from the next customer so there is no way data can be viewed by unauthorized parties.
Now ask yourself, does your current physical system tick all these boxes ?

 

Q : Can I Access My Cloud On The Road Or Abroad ?

I want to make sure my cloud computing system is accessible from anywhere anytime – is this possible?

You most certainly can. Infact this is one of the key benefits of a cloud system and its ability to follow you whether you are in the office, home, on the road or even overseas. As long as you have an internet connection, you will always be in touch with your critical data such as emails, calendar appointments or important documents on the go.

This access is not just limited to notebook computers and laptops. Cloud computing enables you to also access your key data securely via your preferred smart phone or tablet PC. Your cloud computing environment will allow you to work transparently where ever you may physically find yourself at the time.

 

1 2