Thursday, September 29, 2011

Why a Computer Server could be good for your business.

By Louise Daryl


Fundamentally, a computer server is technology that connects a number of computers together to share data and software programs. Furthermore, a server can extra processing power, supply data storage and a backup system. The link between computers and the sharing of information is called a network. Computers are linked into a network either via cables or a wireless router. Servers simplify many daily tasks within a business environment such as centralised data management, file sharing and the sharing of hardware resources, for example, printers and fax machines. A server also proffers computer security functions as it uses a firewall and keep safe all of the computers within its network. The computer server is one of the most major elements in the business surroundings.

A small business working only on one computer tdoes not need a server. The solely time a small business would require one is if they are dealing with huge amounts of data that require a huge of processing power, or they have to share huge amounts of information remotely through the internet. If, therefore, your business uses more than one or two computers in its day-to-day operation and you demand to share files and data between these computers then it may be time for you to think about using a computer server.

Familiar Macs and PCs differ to a computer server in their operating systems and application. A server has data management, secure application sharing and data back up. The Microsoft Small Business Server is the most regular operating system for windows based servers. It offers businesses with all that is wanted to operate your business server and has licensing packages which are on a scale for your needs. If you are more conversant with Apple Macs than you are with PCs then a really effective selection for small businesses is an iMac Mini with Apple's Snow Leopard server software.

Of note is that server hardware is not the same from single PC hardware with enhanced features such as powerful multi-core processors, faster RAM and much bigger storage capacity with more than one hard disk. However, if your business is a quite small business, a normal PC is enough as a server.

Your network must have a high level of security and restricted access to sensitive information. To make sure this is the case, the server has a central user directory and management facility, and here you can store the unique usernames and passwords of every network user. This permits users to log into all computers in your business network using their own username and password. This key facility helps employees to desk-share and still be able to use all of the material that they would usually only be able to access at their own computer. Within the server, the directory management facility helps you to decide which users have access to which data. Therefore, only the people who need to be working with specific files and folders have access to them.

Your business wants have a direct effect on the size and processing power of your server. There are servers on the market for smaller but they are only slightly more powerful than the usual home computer. Big companies frequently require large amounts of storage space and processing power to deal with the requirements of the number of users.

Firstly, prior to jumping-in and purchasing your first business server, it is good practice to first get some proficient advice from an IT consultant. An IT consultant will most likely save you money in the long-run because as they will be able to counsel you what type of server and operating system best suits your requirements. Even though you will have to pay for this advice.




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