Do You Really Need a Server? Bring It All Together Ron Pacchiano
Bring It All Together
None of this functionality would be possible without a true server operating system in place to manage everything, and you're going to need to invest in a good one to get the most out of your new hardware. When it comes to choosing an operating system for your server, there really aren't a lot of options available. One option is a Linux-based OS, which would do a fine job. Linux has modest hardware requirements and is reliable. The only downside is that a Linux-based server will require a qualified technician to install and configure properly, something that can be very expensive.
In my opinion, you'll likely be better off using a Windows-based operating system such as Windows 2003 Server or Microsoft Small Business Server 2003. SBS2003 is actually a combination of Windows 2003 Server and various other Microsoft server products such as Microsoft Exchange and Microsoft SQL Server. Either product would be an ideal choice for a small business.
The majority of the Windows-based server setup and configuration is automated, requiring only minimal input from the installer. Therefore it can be configured by a person of nominal IT experience, so the installation cost shouldn't get too out of hand. Once it has been successfully set up, managing day-to-day functions such as creating user accounts, managing printers, configuring groups, and installing new hardware is pretty straightforward. Anyone familiar with previous versions of Windows will find themselves right at home in Windows 2003 Server.
If you're not running a server in your small business and you have more than five employees, I hope that you'll heed my advice and look into the benefits you can gain by adding a server to your small business. The information I provided here only touches the surface of what a proper network can do for you. Options like VPN access, e-mail services, Web hosting and database management will also be available to you once you venture down the server road.
