Implementing a server can make the world of difference, even if you only have few PCs running on your network. Fact or an inflated sales pitch?
This release looks at why businesses, specifically smaller businesses should consider implementing a server, highlighting comments from Douglas Downing, Intel business manager: servers, desktops and networking at local distributor Rectron.
Deciding to purchase a server, specifically when you are a smaller business running a peer-to-peer network, is definitely not as easy as upgrading to the latest business software.
So, where do you start and even more to the point, is it really viable to go the server route at all, especially if you have a small company with a few PCs?
Today, there are various tools that enable peer-to-peer sharing within small workgroups. This means that some or all PCs share their hard disk and personal printers so others can access them.
Although there are obvious and well-known benefits, peer-to-peer sharing can also present some problems.
"Although a PC is great personal computer, it is just not a server. Instead your business should opt for a `real` server such as dual-processor computer, equipped with, for example, Intel Xeon processors, which is still in a PC form but offers stronger and more secure computing power," comments Douglas Downing, Intel business manager: servers, desktops and networking at South African distributor Rectron.
There is no clear break point forcing you to move from a peer-to-peer network to a dedicated server, however, when performance, control, security and backup problems start to bother you - whether you have two or 22 PCs - it`s time to move on.
If your business is cash-strapped, you can probably configure a dedicated PC in a peer-to-peer network as the only computer sharing its hard drive and printer. This will alleviate the performance drain on PCs.
However, comments Downing, if you are planning to upgrade to the latest software suites, chances are that you`ll need a beefy server that offers more RAM.
"For example, minimum disk space for Microsoft`s upcoming Small Business Server 2003 is 4GB. Again, a Xeon processor-based server offers more than enough memory to cater for current and upcoming technologies."
Indeed, there is also more room for expansion when opting for a "real" server. A regular PC might have two drive bays, one catering specifically for the hard drive, while a server case will have four more bays for hard disks.
"Servers also offer other benefits such as improved Internet connectivity and security, which benefit any enterprise, small or large. By implementing a `real` server, companies can take advantage of the latest firewall and other perimeter defence technologies, shielding their employees against today`s dangerous virus, worm and Trojan onslaughts."
He adds that a server improves the utilisation and management of companies` IT resources.
The cost associated with upgrading to a single CPU server has also narrowed significantly - if you partner with a reseller that focuses on the SME market, you`ll be surprised at what offerings are currently available.
Concludes Downing: "Ignoring the signs can be detrimental, explore your options, and make sure that you empower your employees by implementing a `real` server that optimises your computing and work environments."
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