Windows Network

The Windoze is not your problem. You can just setup a simple Windoze network. Pick a protocol. I prefer to use just TCP/IP; no NetBEUI, no IPX/SPX, unless required. For simplicity, create a workgroup into which they can all belong, or add them to anexisting NT Domain.

The real problem, as you suspect, is the distance. In general, we like to keep Ethernet over copper runs down to 100m.

I would look for groups of PCs and cluster them all into a small switch. Then the tough part is to figure out how to join those groups into one network.

You might be able to run fibre between the switches. But you will still be limited to the length of the runs, unless you get some repeaters.

If you can't run fibre (or some other cable), then you can try some of the wireless solutions. Cisco Aironet is a good one. I believe Aironet is a "line of sight" solution, so you need to pick your locations carefully. There are other wireless approaches that you should look at from other vendors.

Bob's answer is very good. I guess the only thing I have to add is a few questions you need to ask yourself.

1. What are your limitations on tearing up the ground (I would check with facilities and your local government if it leaves or is not onprivate property). Even then you will still need to call digsafe to get an okay for a cable run.

2. Aironet is a good solution, but it is wireless ethernet and not very reliable. What is your budget? Cisco has other line-of-sight products that are more reliable than wireless ethernet. There are some microwave dishes as well.

3. Have you called your local phone company for an estimate on a cable run for a T1 building to building?

Basically, you have many choices. I believe due to your description of the issue that your budget isn't that high. Aironet from Cisco is a good solution but be ready for the inevitable sunspot-my-connection-isn't-working-blues.

There are a couple of possiblilties. What makes sense will depend on which one you can make work in your situation.

I would establish an NT or 2000 server in the office that has the best place for it (well-ventilated secure room near the telco closet and away from major plumbing). Create a domain. All your PCs will be added to the domain as you connect them.

Install a stackable multi-port switch in each building and connect your PCs to them.

To interconnect the 2 locations you will have to make a site survey and decide what is right for you. Black Box (and probably other vendors) sell a variety of wireless network extenders. If you have line-of-sight between buildings this might work for you. Another solution is to run a fiber-optic link between the buildings. A third is to lease a telco line and install an appropriate router in each building. If you install routers you should consider subnetting (one for each location) to cut down on link traffic.

For the ultimatein reliability you could install a BDC in the other building and use replication during off-hours to keep user files current on both servers. For 11 users this is probably overkill.

You can do it in a few ways :
1. Wire with regular CAT5 STP cable with
repeater(hub/switch) at the end of 100m.
(If it possible to connect the device
between).
2. The best way to do is to put fiber optics
cable between two buildings and connect
switch at each side (Cisco's simple
switches with FX ports will be enough..)
and this will allow to make also VLAN
(recommended to reduce network traffic..).
3. Use connection through modem (DSL/ISDN)
to connect both sites. (Cheap but not so
reliable, although hardware is quite OK.).

Good luck,

Okay well Grunz you never told me what kind of routers you are connecting, how much space is between the buildings and how much money you have. So now I have to suppose a few things:

1. that the buildings are less than a football field apart and you don't have to run the fiber across anyone else's property (this includes public city property).

2. I assume you know how to dig a hole or a trench and can use insulated PVC pipes. You will also have to put in signs that tell people not to dig.

3. That you want to use and can afford good single mode fiber optic cable (this can be expensive).

4. You have two 3660 routers (at least, if not 7500 series or better routers) or can afford them and the OC-3 line cards (long-reach) that can go in them.

Okay, now that I have assumed a few things stick those routers in each building. Then connect the OC-3 cable onto a wall mount fiber-box at each building. OR if you want to do it the real kludgy way just run the cable directly from the router into the PVC then across the way top the other building. Make sure you set one side timing for internal and the other for line and make sure the CRC settings for both sides are the same. Since these will most likely be ATM modules you will have to know how to build ATM subinterfaces and map them to the interface. But I warn you its better to have someone come in and do all this work for you. I still suggest either a long-haul ethernet switch or wireless instead of fiber. You'd be better off that way. As it is you'll still have to buy an expensive line conditioner and cleaning kit for you expensive fiber cable (www.datacomwarehouse.com). Other than that I take no responsibility if you run this cable across someone else's property or break any laws. Remember to call dig-safe before you start digging the trench for this thing.