Monday, July 21, 2008

Part 2: Connecting All Hardwares In Internet Cafe

Configuring the modem and router

There are many broadband modem with built it router out there. The configuration is off course different with each other. But the basic configuration is to set the router as the gateway. You also have to insert your dialing properties in the router, such as your username and password. Most of the modem can be configured through the web browser at any connected clients. For example, if the modem/router's IP Address is 192.168.1.1, just type http://192.168.1.1 in the web browser URL's box on any PC in the LAN. 

Sharing a Printer

Usually, a printer is connected to the server PC, so the internet cafe staff can easily manage printing process whether from clients or by walk in customer. Configure network neighborhood properties of the server to share printer, this will let printer sharing with the LAN. After install the printer driver into the server, make it shared. "Add printer" at each client by browsing in the LAN and find shared printer at the server. 

Connecting A Scanner

Scanner needs to be connected to a PC to operate. Connect it to a client if you prefer customers to use the scanner themselves, or connect it to the server if you want the cyber cafe staff to scan for your customers. 

Conclusion 

Now we have finished build a LAN with 20 units of PC, a printer and a scanner, which sharing single phone line to connect to the internet. This is just a brief idea on how to connect all hardwares in a cyber cafe. Of course, you may search the details explanation in the search engine or in later articles.