For larger groups, this LAN setup would even allow an internal e-mail system. While you may not need an internal e-mail in the two PC situation there could be time-shifting uses if either of the two users were frequently away from the office. The same e-mail system can support a scheduler which can be set up for group use.

If you have a larger office, probably four or more PC users and must share documents, or just have heavier computer related demands, the client-server model is probably the way to go. The infrastructure required is substantially similar to the peer-to-peer LAN except for the addition of a file server and its network operating system.

In a client-server LAN, each of the PC's (the "client") is given network services from a server. It is a more powerful arrangement offering certain file management capabilities (hence the more usual name: network file server), speed, security, and connection abilities not generally available under the simpler configuration.

A file server is not just another PC. They have certain beefed-up components to protect data integrity, increase speed and throughput in a multi-user environment, and even some hardware redundancies for data safety. Because of this, properly equipped, network file servers tend to cost more than the average PC. However, for a very small user community, with low demands, almost any PC with extra memory can be pressed into service.

Either LAN setup will allow for sharing of scarce resources helping to multiply the value of your computer investment.

An added benefit of resource sharing comes with the need to use the Internet. Many small offices use dial-up modems to connect to their Internet service providers. This usually means that each user needing Internet access will have their own modem, Internet account, and added connect time phone charges for the business call. There exists simple software and fairly inexpensive hardware which would allow the network file server to serve as the connection point to the Internet. The connection would stay live while anyone in the office needed to be connected to the Internet and automatically disconnect when not needed. The connection would be shared, meaning only one modem, one Internet account, and the cost of one business call.

If this is of interest, also investigate connection hardware which bundles two or three modems into a package. The modems automatically sense the need for greater bandwidth and connect as needed (you'd have two or three 56K modems handling your data flow). The advantages are higher throughput without having to go to the next higher level of interconnect service with their higher prices (i.e. any of the xDSL or ISDN services). If your area offers cable modem service for business, look there first for your Internet services.

Planning on doing e-commerce in your business? You'll find that the most popular networking operating systems will also have the ability to support your web site development efforts in house another shared resource of the file server.