Why Buy A Server ?

This is probably the question that I am asked most frequently by small business owners and the answer is usually based on weighing up the cost and benefits concerned for the particular business.

Firstly the number of users is a major factor is answering the question of whether to purchase a server or not. It is quite feasible to connect several, perhaps up to 6, workstations together in what is called a ‘peer to peer’ network. In a peer to peer network security is fairly open i.e. folders are largely shared or not shared and one central workstation computer usually stores all of the main data, which in turn enables all of the data to be backed up from one computer.

It is important to note however that a Windows XP Home computer can only accept up to 5 concurrent connections from other computers and Windows XP Professional 10, therefore this network model can break down quickly, especially if each workstation uses more than one connection. Performance is another major consideration as the main workstation concerned can also slow down dramatically if too many users are sharing files or printers.

In essence the peer to peer based network solution naturally breaks down on it’s own accord if too many computers become involved; however there are several key benefits that a server or domain based network solutions offers as follows..

8 Secure file sharing, according to permissions granted to users and groups

8 Faster consistent sharing of network resources i.e. files and printers

8 A virtually unlimited number of connected users

8 Tape backup option

8 Disaster recovery options via two or more storage disks and second power supply options

8 Domain based email and shared calendar option through Microsoft Exchange

8 Secure remote access option to files and emails

8 Built in firewall protection from the Internet.

On the downside there is the initial cost of purchasing server hardware and software, although it is quite feasible to purchase a basic small office server with Windows 2003 Small Business Server for under £1,000 which includes the Microsoft Exchange email server software.

For larger businesses it is a case of carefully comparing the costs of purchasing Small Business Server which simply costs £55 per user and is sold in packs of five, with Windows 2003 / Exchange Server 2003 which is initially more expensive to purchase, but is then much cheaper per additional license. However a well specified server with tape backup, raid controller, 3/4 SCSI hard disks, redundant power supply, extended warranty, fast processor and memory upgrade will cost significantly more.

Another consideration is the time and expertise, required to both setup and maintain the server. On the surface it may appear that the software comes pre-installed with a new server, but in reality the level of configuration required is beyond the average skilled computer user. Also, if something goes wrong with the server then expert help is likely to be required in order to resolve the problem.

For more information or questions regarding server based networks, please email support@itcroydon.co.uk