Setting up a Server

You’ve decided that it’s time to purchase a server. Perhaps your business has grown past the peer to peer model that you started with or the old server in the closet is howling every time you open the door. Whatever the situation, the big question is where do you start?

Buying a server is not as simple as clicking on the Server, Storage & Networking icon on the Dell website. Sure the price looks right, but what about how it will work for YOUR business?

In this article, we will go over the hardware and software choices that you will be faced with as well as how your business will utilize these tools to be more productive and efficient. After all, technology is designed to help you do business not be your business.

When should you get a server?

The case for buying a server generally comes up when one or several of the following occur:

· Sharing of files between employees is required
· Backup concerns including potentially not catching all data and files
· Multiple computers in office environment and challenges associated with maintaining updates
· Managing printing to select printers
· Securing files by user or user groups
· Remote access is required
· Sharing database applications

A business server addresses the above needs in the following manner:

Servers allow for the setup of a structured secure directory for file storage. Secure folders allow a central repository to share files. By removing files from the hard drive of a user’s local pc and putting them on a server, a centralized backup can be setup that will encompass the critical data on a regular basis. One of the 1st signs that you need a server is when you have added multiple computers and find that you have data strewn all over your office and don’t know how to get to it. Not only does a server provide that structure, it also removes the “island” mentality of individual computers. Management of these computers also becomes easier as processes such as antivirus updates and windows updates can be serviced through one central point and “pushed” down to the clients ensuring that all updates and security are in place. Another time and cost savings can be found with network printers. Having one economical printer that is for all network users can save money vs. managing many lower end printers with expensive ink cartridges. The last two issues are remote access and database applications. Let’s start with your accounting system. Having your business application on the server allows for multiple users to work in the same database. Additionally, secure remote access allows for additional productivity while away from the office.

Selecting the right hardware, software and accessories is critical for your business. Issues such as whether or not you want to manage your own email with Microsoft Exchange are driving factors as to which server software you select. Managing your own email allows for calendar sharing, mailing list and the ability to synchronize with a Microsoft based smart phone. Additionally, managing your own domain provides a more professional appearance. Selecting the right hardware provides scalability and functionality that will save you money. Options include adding additional memory for better response when adding users or running multiple applications.

One of the biggest options that you will have to consider when designing your server based network is the backup solution. The generally accepted backup solution is a tape-based
2 week / 10 day rotation. In this scenario, a user will always have 1 week of backup tapes off site in the event of a disaster. However, a new trend is for offsite backups via the internet. With either solution, a tested Disaster Recovery plan is critical.

Other considerations such as redundancy, often referred to as RAID should be considered as well as dual power supplies and UPS (uninterrupted power supply). How much storage will you need? Again, with a scalable solution, storage can be added at a later time. How many users will you have on your network? All of these questions need to be answered before selecting your server.

Partnering with a local computer company provides support that is one call away. By discussing growth plans and requirements before moving into a new server or your 1st server, you map your companies plan and can budget accordingly without fearing that you overlooked or forgot a critical requirement. And don’t forget, often inexpensive lease options exist where you pay terms and then have a $1.00 buyout on the end.

We look forward to talking with you about your business needs!

For additional information call our office at 912 447 5000 or e-mail Info@abscls.com