Appropriate fee for network set up?

**EyeFitWell** · 08-23-2006, 11:32 AM

I'm just wondering if $80/hr seems reasonable to have someone set up our new network. I'm not a computer moron, but I am not sure how to set up networks. It seems a bit high for something I could probably hire a college student to do...

**mikeh** · 08-23-2006, 01:29 PM

That's about the ballpark figure for professional computer work depending on your market. I'm sure there are college students who can do it. Just ask them! Do you go to the barber college for your haircuts? What do you tell people who ask about ordering glasses online because it's less expensive? Let a professional handle it.

**npdr** · 08-23-2006, 03:58 PM

Originally Posted by EyeFitWell

I'm just wondering if $80/hr seems reasonable to have someone set up our new network. I'm not a computer moron, but I am not sure how to set up networks. It seems a bit high for something I could probably hire a college student to do...

I charge $90 to reconfigure computers and although I'm a doctor, I'm also certified network and systems administrator. Most offices think of their networks as extensions of their home. Therefore "it cannot be that hard to..."

**EyeFitWell** · 08-23-2006, 06:43 PM

You've got a point there... I was just checking, because it really seems like something I could do with an hour's worth of research on the topic. But then again, if I can, then why am I hiring a professional? Peace of mind.

**jono** · 08-29-2006, 08:35 AM

The problem is when things go wrong, you will never find that college student again.:finger:

**C-10** · 08-29-2006, 09:44 AM

I would rather pay a flat fee ask the tec how long it will take to do the job and pay a flat rate that way you know how much it is going to cost you.

**MedicLINK** · 08-31-2006, 04:05 PM

If you want to post a little information on the network you are looking to setup, I could ballpark it for you.

All I need is:

What operating system will the computers be running?

Are you planning on having a server, or you just want to have a small network and have no need for a server?

Do you think it would be a wireless network or will there be cables?

Setting up a basic network for an office shouldn't take much more than an hour or so. Usually, running wires takes the longest. We have some great technical guys that work with us that could take an hour and walk you through the process someday.

Good luck!

The MedicLINK Team