Open Source Solutions For Small Business Problems (Networking Series)

Book Description

Ninety percent of companies in the United States qualify as small businesses. Every day these employers have to deal with common computing problems, such as tracking electronic documents, scheduling, accounting functions, managing contact lists, and reducing spam. Many expensive software products are available to help solve these problems, but they often have features small businesses don't need (or are missing the ones they do). Open source software presents easy-to-implement solutions at a fraction of the cost. Unfortunately, these solutions are relatively unknown to most small businesses. Open Source Solutions for Small Business Problems explores operational problems most small businesses share. It identifies good open source software that can help businesses solve these problems, and compares them to their proprietary counterparts. The strengths and weaknesses of the open source packages are discussed, and additional information is included on how to integrate open source with existing proprietary systems to achieve specific goals. This is the perfect reference for the tech professional looking for help choosing and understanding excellent open source software to deploy in a business setting, as well as for small business proprietors interested in streamlining their business problems using computer-based solutions.

Customer Reviews:

Provides a range of software for Windows.......2004-10-10

Ninety percent of companies in America quality as small businesses but have to deal with large-business headaches ranging from common computer programs, to management issues, to reducing spam. Consultant John Locke's Open Source Solutions For Small Business Problems is the key to understanding the operational problems most small businesses share; from identifying good open source software for solutions to these issues to understanding their strengths and weaknesses. Volume 1.2 of an accompanying 'Open CD' provides a range of software for Windows, essays, and a short video about open source issues, and will run on Windows 98 operating systems on up. An invaluable small business reference for any who use a computer to run operations.

Required for businesses considering switching to Linux.......2004-07-15

In the world of open source there is a plethora of books on installing and administering Linux. There are also many technical books available on setting up a web server or other specific areas of Linux. This book fills a very broad gap for the non-technical person who wants to know about open source products and how they can be beneficial to your needs. This is not a technical manual but a guide that gives a higher-level view of what the software can do and how to use it.

It includes information on obtaining and installing Mandrake Linux (but no troubleshooting if you have a problem), setting up an office network, setting up an email server, setting up a web server, customer relationship management, calendar and schedule management, document management, accounting, project management, security, and just about everything you need to know to setup and run your business on an open source solution.

Perhaps the best way to provide an indication of this book's perspective is to look at a specific chapter. One of the best ones for this purpose is the one on setting up a web server. The first thing addressed is why you need a web server in the first place. This is followed by an examination of the most common open source web server - Apache. It then provides enough information to understand some of the basics of configuration. This allows you to understand what the configuration files do and get a server up and running, but not enough information to actually configure a secure server.

So, what makes this book so unique that I would recommend it to anyone? It meets the needs of the manager in that it is general enough that someone who has no knowledge of Linux can understand what is going on and what to expect of an installation. Yet it also meets the needs of the technical Linux user who understands the details of all the configuration files but often does not have an overall view of what the complete system is supposed to do. For example, it gives a short conceptual view of Perl that is sufficient to let the reader know if it is something that they could use but provides no information on how to program it. Then again, there are many, many books on Perl programming available.

"Open Source Solutions for Small Business Problems" is a very highly recommended book for anyone who is looking at the open source market and particularly anyone considering Linux as an operating system of choice either on the desktop or as a server. This is easily one of the best Linux books of the year; providing a management level view of the Linux world without the technical focus of other books.

A unique mix of business and technical information..........2004-06-29

I just finished a rather interesting and different book on Open Source Software. The title is Open Source Solutions for Small Business Problems by John Locke (Charles River Media). The author contacted me and asked if I'd like to review the book, and I accepted. Since this is an area which is grabbing more of my interest these days, it was helpful in many ways...

First, the chapter layout:
Part 1 - Small Business Computing Infrastructure - Open Source Software in Your Small Business; Why You Need A Server; Setting Up Your Office Network; Open Source on the Desktop; Setting Up an Email Server; Setting Up a Web Server
Part 2 - Computing Your Business Operations - Customer Relationship Management; Calendar and Schedule Management; Document Management; Financial Management; Managing Resources, Schedules, and Projects
Part 3 - Extending Your Business With Open Source - Sharing Information with Your Partners; Marketing Your Message; Connect from Offsite; Providing Private Communications
Part 4 - Keeping Your Network Secure and Intact - Securing Business Data; Network Security in a Wireless World; Disaster Recovery; Viruses and Spam
Appendices - The Open Source Definition; Basics Of Networking; Common Open Source Licenses

When I first started reading it, I was expecting something non-technical in nature, something that would be targeted for the average business owner that knows s/he wants to spend less on software and is looking for alternatives. And to be sure, the book does deliver to that group. But there are also chapters (or areas within each chapter) where the content gets pretty technical. For instance, the detail on how to set up a web server isn't for the person who simply wants to turn on their computer and go. These areas are going to appeal to the in-house technical support person who's been charged with making it all work. While you could (and probably should) find whole books on many of these topics, there's enough detail to get you started in the right direction.

I think Part 2 is extremely valuable, in that it helps both the business owner and the techie figure out what's available in terms of open source alternatives to the typical business software. You learn about OpenOffice.org as a replacement to Microsoft's Office. You learn about MySQL as an alternative to Microsoft Access or many other more expensive relational database systems. You'd be able to find all this out if you dug around on the web long enough, but the author packages up the information in a single location and helps you start to understand what's available for you.

There's also a CD in the back of the book that contains many of the open source packages discussed in the book. Being that these packages move pretty quickly as far as release cycles go, I think I'd prefer visit the web site for the specific package and download the latest. Still, if you're wanting something quick, you'll have it on the CD.

Book Description

The small-business sector is spending billions to install and manage its networked systems--most often with the help of third-party service providers or resellers. To support what can be a high-stakes proposition for both customer and vendor, Microsoft Press presents BUILDING PROFITABLE SOLUTIONS WITH MICROSOFT BACKOFFICE SMALL BUSINESS SOLUTIONS SERVER 4.5. This timely, pragmatic guide focuses on how to exploit the capabilities and advantages of Microsoft BackOffice Small Business Server as the digital backbone of the small business network. Offering thorough coverage of Small Business Server version 4.5--with a particular focus on its enhanced tools and functionality for third parties who install, integrate, and administer Small Business Server installations--this book is the technically savvy, must-have resource for vendors and customers alike.

Customer Reviews:

Not your typical reference book.......2001-03-12

This is an aptly-titled book. Although it contains some technical information and how-tos, its focus is much more on selling and planning projects and developing a successful consulting practice. It should not be counted on for troubleshooting or technical reference. The advice on how to be a consultant is sound. However, I am not convinced that SBS is the best choice for small business technology.

Required Reading for SBS.......2000-03-01

A great reference. Has planning templates, cutomization info, and a lot of other things that make implementing, and billing an SBS install easier.

An excellent resource!.......2000-01-13

Just finished reading Josh Feinberg's excellent "Building Profitable Solutions With Microsoft Back Office Small Business Server 4.5."

It is an excellent resource for those of us in the computer consulting business. Although it is specifically tailored to those who wish to make a living installing and servicing SBS 4.5, there is enough information to make it a worthwhile purchase for any computer consultant.

The included CD contains many useful templates and documents that I plan on using in my own business.

Book Description

SMART BUSINESS SOLUTIONS FOR NETWORKING is a solutions-oriented handbook for anyone with a small business who wants to get maximum bang from their technology buck. Whether the user is considering a network or is looking to make better use of an existing one, this savvy guide offers an essential roadmap for approaching, setting up, deploying, administering, and troubleshooting. Written for the layreader (not IT professionals), Smart Business Solutions for Networking focuses on Microsoft(r) technologies, including Microsoft Small Business Server version 4.5, to help small businesses become more profitable.

AMI White Papers: The Evolving Roles and Opportunities for Small Business IT Solution Providers

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AMI White Papers: The Evolving Roles and Opportunities for Small Business IT Solution Providers

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Cisco Network Design Solutions for Small-Medium Businesses (Networking Technology)

Average customer rating:

A onestop reference and design guide for the effective implementation of networking solutions
Business First Approach Spells Winner
Concentrated guidance for SMBs!!
Comprehensive and Has Depth to Solve Design Issues
Design Solutions for SMB is an Outstanding Book

Cisco Network Design Solutions for Small-Medium Businesses (Networking Technology)
Peter Rybaczyk
Manufacturer: Cisco Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1587051435

Book Description

Master the design and deployment of small and medium-sized businesses networks

Master design and deployment best practices specifically tailored to small and medium-sized businesses networks
Understand the diverse array of SMB solutions, avoiding the pitfalls of the one-size-fits-all approach
Learn about CRM, security, wireless LAN and unified communications solutions, as well as VoIP and IP Telephony solutions

Cisco Network Design Solutions for Small-Medium Businesses zeros in on critical solutions for networking professionals who are deploying computer networks within a small or medium-sized business. It addresses core networking issues, including security, customer relations management (CRM), wireless LANs, unified communications, IP telephony, and more. For networking professionals, this book is a one-stop reference and design guide for the effective implementation of networking solutions that enhance the bottom line. The book is separated into two parts — the first part explores the network design process, surveys the SMB landscape, and identifies the network requirements from the edge to the core for an effective solution implementation. The second part identifies multiple security solutions, Cisco's integration with popular CRM solutions, design models for ICS 7750 deployment in the context of an IP Telephony solution, Wireless LAN solutions, and Cisco's Unity and IP/TV solutions.

158705143503232004

Customer Reviews:

A onestop reference and design guide for the effective implementation of networking solutions.......2005-08-06

Cisco Network Design Solutions For SmallMedium Businesses zeros in on critical solutions for networking professionals who are deploying computer networks within a small or mediumsized business. It addresses core networking issues, including security, customer relations management (CRM), wireless LANs, unified communications, IP telephony, and more. For networking professionals, Cisco Network Design Solutions for SmallMedium Businesses is a onestop reference and design guide for the effective implementation of networking solutions that enhance the bottom line. Cisco Network Design Solutions For SmallMedium Businesses is separated into two parts the first part explores the network design process, surveys the SMB landscape, and identifies the network requirements from the edge to the core for an effective solution implementation. The second part identifies multiple security solutions, Cisco's integration with popular CRM solutions, design models for ICS 7750 deployment in the context of an IP Telephony solution, Wireless LAN solutions, and Cisco's Unity and IP/TV solutions.

Business First Approach Spells Winner.......2005-01-18

This book gives sound advice for developing an effective business focused network solution. I especially like the chapters on security, which are practical and concise, offering an effective path for making sense of the all to complex security situation that we find ourselves confronted with in these times. The author puts security issues and threats in an easy-to-understand framework along with examples that help the reader make the connection to their business. Each threat is followed up with a set of solutions that the designer (and the CEO) can use to assess the security interventions that best balance risks and costs for their own business. The creation of a security policy is stressed. A follow-on chapter delves into the details of how the security policy gets translated into the Cisco environment. This book takes the rare but much needed view that network design should be driven from requirements and policy first and design and implementation second. Although the title slots the book in the realm of Cisco network design for small to medium businesses it should be of interest to a wider audience. I count myself fortunate to have crossed paths with this practical and useful book. Hats off to Mr. Rybaczyk for a job well done!

Concentrated guidance for SMBs!!.......2005-01-10

Every sentence in this excellently written book is packed with concentrated advice for small-to-medium sized enterprises. The content is absolutely up-to-date in how it relates to the real world. I particularly valued the Security Overview chapter, which helped me, with its Security Policy template, to meet the new Sarbanes-Oxley requirements for financial data security. Essential reading for every SMB enterprise!

Comprehensive and Has Depth to Solve Design Issues .......2004-10-17

Cisco Network Design Solutions for Small-Medium Businesses (Peter Rybacyk, 2005) outlines the networking needs of SMB's across the whole "yellow pages" of vertical markets. When dealing with a topic this extensive, an author has to make choices between depth and breadth. While the book does not delve too deeply into configuration or deployment use cases, it does manage to touch on pretty much every solution Cisco offers the SMB market. It's a comprehensive resource for a partner or reseller to help design an SMB network. By covering the SMB market in such detail, the book actually winds up touching on most of the major solutions (including enterprise) in networking today.

For the small business owner, its probably a bit steep on the technical detail for a first-step resource, but if you are already networking savvy or have able to dig a little deeper to get more vital information, you'll find this book quite useful. It's worth noting that there isn't any mention of the Linksys offerings; thus, it appears that this book is aimed at the "larger than the smallest" SMB market; it certainly is not applicable to small office/home office (SOHO).

Throughout the book the author puts forth a poignant and true-ringing analogy about the direction of networking vis a vis its apparent commoditization. Networking appears to be en route, however quickly and completely, to a kind of utility basis, wherein we will come to see it as increasingly plug and play, and perhaps as reliable, as electrical and plumbing systems. Although it is questionable whether networking can ever attain such a status, especially inasmuch as the applications get more complex with IPT, wireless, and storage, the trend in that direction is apparent (and welcome!).

The first part of the book covers the network design process and the profiles on different small and medium-sized businesses. It takes into consideration the key requirements of an SMB network: high performance, scalability, and "built within budget." This section includes an interesting overview of the networking infrastructure, including cable plant and storage requirements. There is a very useful checklist of design document components including requirements, cost/benefit analysis, implementation details, and so forth.

The second, and larger, part of the book details specific network solutions. These include security, remote access, IP telephony, wireless, partner collaboration, customer care, and front/back office collaboration. The security topic is divided into two chapters, the first dealing with the impact of the wide variety of security breaches (such as DDoS, man-in-the-middle attacks, zombies, worms, etc.). The other security chapter covers details on VPNs (in terms of the encryption technologies, appliances such as concentrators to manage them, and management advantages), firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and security functionality in the Cisco IOS. After detailing the requirements for VPNs (authentication, encryption, flexibility, scalability), a variety of VPN topologies (hub and spoke versus full mesh) and technologies (IPSec, SSL, and GRE) are discussed. It then covers advanced topics such as Dynamic Multipoint VPNs (DMVPN). Firewall technologies and capabilities such as DMZ creation, NAT, static packet filtering, and stateful inspection are discussed in detail.

Wireless LANs (WLAN) are tackled next, and the book provides excellent product descriptions of access points, wireless routers and bridges, switching requirements, site survey issues, the different standards, and the security implementation. There are several unique security issues related to wireless networking; examples include rogue access points and eavesdropping. There are many authentication and encryption technologies available for WLANs, partly because this a new area and partly because the original WEP encryption proved to be fairly easy to hack. The performance and topology considerations of WLANs also get a little bit dense because of the many ways that wireless signals can be interrupted. Thus, a serious discussion on WLAN technology needs to cover such topics as radio frequencies, relevant standards (802.11 a/b/g), transmit power, and antenna types. The Cisco Aironet family of access points is discussed in detail.

The CRM chapter deals with the relevant Cisco products (e.g., IPCC) to customer care. This is a relatively nebulous area because it is really so business dependent that it's hard to find a one-size-fits-all solution. But the Cisco Contact Center product description gives a very good idea of the current state of the solution.

The IP Telephony chapter covers the Cisco Call Manager (CCM) Express and other CCM IPT solutions, including deployment options. It first discusses the lower-level technical details such as echo, delay and jitter, and then goes on to discuss IPT standards and protocols, and relevant products such as gateways, gatekeepers, PBXs, and IP phones. Then integrated IPT solutions are discussed along with integrated call manager deployments. Finally it covers integration issues such as dial plans and integration with legacy PBXes. Issues related to unified messaging (e.g., getting your voice messages via email, and vice versa) are discussed in the following chapter, followed by front office/back office integration (detailing applications such as order processing and inventory management).

Overall, this well written and smartly illustrated book hits the mark and rates 5 stars out of 5.

Design Solutions for SMB is an Outstanding Book.......2004-09-12

Do you manage an accounting department? This book is for you. Are you in sales, marketing, manufacturing, advertising? This book is for you. Are you a senior or mid-level manager in a small to medium sized business? If you are, this book is for you. If you are a network engineer who is considering a move into management this book is for you. If you are a network manager, this book will give you excellent insights into the use of various technologies in your business. If you are a school administrator or technology coordinator in a school district of any size this book is for you. If you are a Cisco 'guru', this book will fill in any gap that you may have regarding newer Cisco technologies and how they might be integrated within your organization.

This book isn't a standard technology book with detailed explanations regarding for instance; how to enter into 'config' mode or how to configure a vlan on a wireless device. This book is about serious issues that all Small to Medium businesses face as they try to bring their organizations to the next level.

It is almost impossible to do justice to this book without writing 100 page review...but I will do my best to point out some salient points that I believe provide the philosophical guidance that underlies what is written.

In Chapter 7 Customer Relationship Management Solutions (CRM), Peter writes the following, "Any effective CRM solutions offers an SMB the opportunity to provide excellent customer service 100% of the time or, at least, close to it. In the information age, it means that no matter which employee is interacting with a customer, he or she has access to the relevant information to meet the customer's needs effectively, in a timely manner, and without confusion." He then proceeds to write that whether one is taking an order, a reservation, offering info about a new service or product, "a CRM solution should facilitate the interaction and the decision-making process on the part of the SMB's employees."

Talk about a crash-course MBA. His chapter on CRM and Chapter 10 Front and Back Office Integration Solutions reads like a mini-mba and should be helpful to anyone in management. The rest of the book provides inciteful information on various technologies and how they can be considered within the context of Customer Relationship Management Solution, increasing a company's competitiveness and increasing the bottom line.

For instance, in the section on VPNs, Peter provides a level of technical insight that is usually missing from technical how-to books. In addition, he provides the business-management insight that is always missing from how-to books. The issues that he writes about are critically important for not only network managers to understand, but for business managers to understand also. Any techie who reads this book will clearly be more valuable to an organization. Many techies only understand the 'prompt' they see on a router or switch. If a 'techie' wants to be well-respected within an organization, they need to have a deeper level of managerial insight that goes beyond the 'prompt'. This book will provide that and may well lead to a higher-level position within a company.

For instance, a VPN isn't just encrypted traffic running through the Internet. In the VPN section, Peter writes about design considerations, network topoligies and workforce distribution, cost savings, and vpns as enhancements to the existing communications infrastructure, reliability, resiliance, and scalability, and much, much more.

I consider myself fairly knowledgable on routing, wireless, security...vpns, firewalls, (not intrusion detection). I know a fair amount about VoIP in WANs. This book provided me with a great deal of understanding as to the equipment and issues with using VoIP in lans. I knew next to nothing about Unified Communications Solutions but now understand how it fits overall within the organization, and understand critical issues from both the technical and the human-managerial side. I have gained many important insights into areas that I understand technically...but not from the smb-management side.

Peter writes in such a manner that it is easy to understand where and how the technologies that he writes about, will help small to medium business processes and provide a higher lever of Customer Relationship Management.

This was a challenging book to write, but Peter has succeeded in doing the impossible. He has successfully integrated both technical and managerial issues into a cohesive book that any business and even school district will benefit from.

This book is a winner! Read it today!

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