What is an ideal LAN infrastructure for my business when I use Google Apps?

I use Google Apps heavily for all my needs: project management (ManyMoon with Google Apps), Gmail, Google Talk and even Docs. I set up a Windows 2003 server to store my heavy design related files. I'm okay with the idea of upgrading to Google Apps for business; however, there seems to be no way to block personal gmail (over SSL as well) while continuing to use Google Apps Mail. Is there a workaround? I have a Sonicwall firewall device but it does not help. Did a lot of research and still have no idea how to do this. I like the idea of having everything on the cloud but I'm open to an infrastructure where everything is on my Local Area Network - but is setting all that up worth the effort? If yes, what are your tips? Any tips/help will be appreciated.

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Cameron Crest, CIO, Business IT Consultant, Owner Cr... (more)

If you want to move fully into the cloud. Don't set up anything local other than a router, your cable modem and network cables. You will save a ton of money. the local server isn't worth the crashes and IT cost.

As for blocking confidential data from leaving your domain, Lock it down in your administration control panel. If you set it so files cannot be shared outside the domain and have some information theft happening, The problem doesn't have anything to do with your network.

One of the major benefits (and really the whole point) of the cloud is to make your company data accessible to your employees from anywhere. Having Google Apps allows your users to log in at home, on their tablets, on their phones etc. Blocking personal email in the workplace doesn't accomplish anything that they couldn't do at home or on their phone at the park.

If employees cannot be trusted to keep data inside your domain, then they cannot be trusted to keep their username and password to google apps secure either. That would be a bigger threat.

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