A client of mine runs a dentist's office. They purchased a house that is about 100 feet away. They want to use that house as an office. They have around 15 computers and a server. I'm trying to think of the best option. Here is an email I sent to him. Let me know what you think the best solution is, especially if you have experience with running Ethernet between buildings.
I believe (can't remember exactly) there is a dirt road (easement) between the house and office.
"There are three options that I see, and none are pocketbook friendly.
Option 1) Preferred. Up-front cost is high, but speed it superior and there is no ongoing cost. Good investment for future expansion in that house.
Have an electric company bury Ethernet between the two buildings. The wire will be a cheap part of it, so get the higher end Cat6. Perhaps the elec. Company will have other recommendations for the cable. I wouldnt be opposed to it. The new branch of the office will be just as fast as it is in the current office. Remote Access will not need to be used and Quickbooks and everything else will work well.
Option 2) Up-front cost is low-moderate, speed is low, monthly cost. This option is only if a wire is too expensive or impossible.
Get a second cable internet account at the house. Get VPN set up between the two offices. Will need 1 addl router (the router at the office is already capable) and advanced configuration. Adds another monthly fee for cable internet at the house ($50-80/month).
Option 3) Up-front cost varies. This option is difficult because we cant know how well it works until it works or doesnt work. The price will vary depending on where devices are mounted, how cables are run, cost of hardware, etc. I dont like this option as a support provider.
Go wireless. Try with a USB adapter to see if it works. It wont, but it could potentially work. It probably wont, though. We could try higher-end WiFi products ($500 wireless access point), but doing that is only benefited if we pair it with another one on the other side, so the hardware is probably around $1200 for the WiFi equipment. It will need to be mounted outside and power/Ethernet run to it. Larger antennae are available and so are weatherproof items. Wireless is spotty anyway and the speed is okay."
