Ask Marty: I want to put computers in my operatories. Should I have a wired or wireless network?

Q: I want to put computers in my operatories. Should I have a wired or wireless network?

A: Congratulations on wanting to computerize your operatories. This is the first step to implementing many cool features for you and your patients.

I always recommend a wired network. It is more secure and provides better performance. You will not have to worry about an outside person hacking into your network over your wireless connection (I don't believe this is a big concern, but wireless network passwords can be broken).

While a wired network initially costs more to set up, the benefits certainly outweigh the additional costs. The cost is approximately $100 per network outlet. Run a minimum of two Ethernet cables to each treatment room. The actual wire cable is cheap compared to the labor costs if you have to add more cable runs in the future. Determine the location of the computer(s) prior to running the cable so the outlets are where you need them, not where it may be easiest for the person running the cable to put them.

The wired network can be much faster if you install category 6 cabling and gigabyte switches and cards. Gigabyte peripherals allow for faster access to large files (images) on your server, and there will be less chance of data base corruptions.

If absolutely necessary, a wireless network can be installed. Make sure you have enough access points to have a strong signal throughout your office, while also trying to minimize the strength of the signal beyond your office walls. Use the highest level of security protocols, along with a strong password. Change your password frequently. Make sure you make the SSID (service set identifier) invisible so that no one outside the office knows the access point exists.

Remember: no computer network, wired or wireless, is completely secure. Business owners should research this topic to ensure they are aware of and comfortable with the risks and benefits of both wired and wireless networks.

Martin Jablow, D.M.D., is a practicing dentist and a self-professed technophile who lectures and blogs on a variety of technologies used in dentistry (dentechblog.blogspot.com). If you have a technology question for Dr. Jablow, e-mail it to us at [email protected].

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