* Dr. Internet columnist Steve Blass discusses transferring traffic directly * Help Desk columnist Ron Nutter discusses ways to block employee access to Web sites
* A cure for traffic transfer troubles
By Steve Blass
Q: I’m trying to speed up TCP/IP based file transfers on one of our network segments. I replaced the 100MB Ethernet switch with a Gigabit switch and the connection lights show that all the workstations are connected at full speed. The problem is that traffic between the workstations is still going out to the main network router and coming back during file transfers. Is there a way to get the transfer traffic to go directly between the workstations?
A: You may be able to accomplish your goal by adjusting the workstation network address settings. IP traffic can be delivered directly by Ethernet between machines on the same physical and logical subnet.
To read Steve’s response in its entirety, please click here.
* The best way to block employee access to Web sites
By Ron Nutter
Q: We are beginning to have more and more of a problem with “improper” use of the Internet. Although we expect some personal use – periodic checking of personal e-mail for example but sometimes there is less business use of the Internet happening and less productivity that has been getting noticed. We have been told that putting a proxy in place can help with this. Will a firewall be able to do this instead? Would appreciate some suggestions on how to deal with this.
A: The first thing you should do is set up a meeting with HR and your lawyer or legal department. Policies need to be established as to what is and what is not acceptable use of the Internet by employees. If you are going to allow personal use, it should be clearly spelled out what is allowed and when it can be done. You will need to make sure that all employees are aware of this policy and that they are reminded of this policy on a regular basis. There will need to be periodic reviews of your policies on this matter to make sure that they are fair and consistent.
To read Ron’s response in its entirety, please click here.
