Monday, October 31, 2011

Why a Computer Server could be good for your business.

By Sarah Jenyns


Computer servers permit more than one computer to be linked together and use the same data and software programs. Moreover, they can supply data storage, extra processing power and a backup system. The link between computers and the sharing of data is called a network. Computers are linked into a network either via cables or a wireless router. Servers clarify many day-to-day tasks within a business environment such as centralised data management, file sharing and the sharing of hardware resources. Every computer in the network is kept safe by a firewall which has computer security characteristics via the server. It has been noted that one of the most important factors within a business surroundings is the computer server.

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 material that require a vast of processing power, or they have to share huge amounts of information remotely through the internet. If, however, your business utilises more than one or two computers in its day-to-day operation and you demand to share files and material between these computers then it may be time for you to think about using a computer server.

Normal PCs and Macs vary from a computer server in their application and operating systems. A computer server provides data back up, data management and secure application sharing. With windows based servers, the most usual operating system to use is the Microsoft Small Business Server, which provides your business with everything wanted to run the business server. Moreover, it has licensing packages which are scalable to accommodate your requirements. If you are more familiar with Apple Macs than you are with PCs then a really effective choice for small businesses is an iMac Mini running Apple's Snow Leopard server software.

Although for quite small businesses a normal PC can be used as a server, typically server hardware also is not the same with enhanced features for example quicker RAM, powerful multi-core processors and much larger storage capacity with more than one hard disk.

Making sure that your nework is secure to a high standard is exceedingly significant. To do this servers are able to store all unique usernames and passwords in a central user directory so that anyone using any computer in the network can log on and access data. This is available because the server has a central user directory and management facility, which stores this data. By utilising this flexible facility, the employees of a business can use any computer on the network and yet access the data that they would normally only have access to on their own computer. Within the server, the directory management facility helps you to decide which users have access to which information. Therefore, only the people who need to be working with certain files and folders have access to them.

It is important to make sure that the processing power and size of your server is precisely reflect to the needs of your business. Big companies usually need large amounts of storage space and processing power to handle the requirements of the number of users. There are servers on the market for the smaller business but are only slightly more powerful than a usual home computer.

It is good practice to acquire some expert advice from an IT consultant before you go ahead and purchase your first business server. Whilst you will pay for this advice, an IT consultant will most likely save you money in the long-run as they will be able to counsel you what type of server and operating system best suits your needs.




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