Remote servers Alternatively, you may be able to let a remote server handle your storage needs. The good news about using the LAN-based disk is that you may not have to add any hardware. The bad news is that the performance may not be all you want. Switched hubs greatly increase the total available bandwidth, because each link can operate independently, but no single link will exceed 10 Mbps. That way, you won't be competing for bandwidth with dozens or hundreds of other users.
Some vendors spend a great deal of energy on making things pleasant and safe for the user.
Their machines are quiet, easy to work on, and visually attractive. Other vendors, in contrast, produce noisy equipment that forces the user to navigate past sharp edges and jumper pins. They may also utilize the same type of plug for two different purposes, allowing users to make expensive mistakes. About the author Rich Morin operates Canta Forda Computer Laboratory , a computer consulting firm specializing in open source software. He lives in San Bruno, Calif., on the San Francisco peninsula.