In a pinch, a doctor will access office data files across the phone line. A small business sells manufactured homes, and has offices in two cities. By using WFW in each city, they can use the RAS function to link a PC on each end. This arrangement works now because they have only a few computers, and all important files are stored on the PCs with modems. A hospital department also uses RAS, but relies on Windows NT for the RAS server.
Doctors can review data or download reports on any part of the office network.
The department uses 28,800 bps modems because of the large amount of data being transferred. Eventually, the company expects to use ISDN lines, with the higher speed and other advantages. It is practical and useful, but takes some work for small businesses. Just as with installing a network, you can do this yourself, but you'll have fewer headaches relying on professional help. The most important point to remember here is that you need to analyze your specific needs and lay out a plan.