When LegalWise needed a cost-efficient server to handle its Internet needs, it turned to Obsidian Systems and that company`s Linux-based LINC Server. Digby Prior, general manager of MIS at LegalWise, says the company had unique requirements for a general purpose solution.
"Although we are relatively low-traffic Internet users we needed a cost-efficient means for providing access to our branches around the country," says Prior. "We also needed a means of managing local e-mail accounts on local servers while still managing mail transfers countrywide."
LegalWise is the trading name for Legal Expenses Insurance Southern Africa Limited (LEZA). Established in 1984, LegalWise pioneered the concept of legal expenses insurance in SA - a concept endorsed by the association of Law Societies of South Africa and the Black Lawyers Association.
Prior says the Linux Internet Network Connection (LINC) server solution was an ideal one because of its low cost and reliability. "Our branch locations are not generally the centre of the computing universe," says Prior. "But the LINC server has made it easy for us to configure a nationwide point of presence where remote branches can find their way through to our local domain. Everything is now working far better than before - and at a lower cost. Since the LINC server has no licensing fees, we can add capacity without incurring additional software charges. "
Charles Leaver, LINC specialist at Obsidian Systems, says the LINC Server`s pre-installed mail server, Web server, firewall and proxy server have been configured by Obsidian Systems to ensure optimal performance, reliability and compatibility. "The Obsidian LINC can boost the speed, productivity and reliability of any IT network," says Leaver. "Many businesses today are struggling with the onerous costs of licensing proprietary solutions. LINC gives you all of the above functionality without the need for constant upgrades or annual licence fees."
Obsidian Systems installs and configures the software, and can supply all the relevant support, maintenance, connectivity and administration. The solution includes everything needed to transform an office with a few computers and an ISDN line into an enterprise level network with internal and external connectivity - without the need for any additional maintenance staff.
External Web pages are hosted by Obsidian at Internet Solutions, and internal intranet pages on the LINC server itself. Prior says this feature will become more important as much of the new software used by the company is moving towards a Web-based intranet platform.
For mission-critical situations it is the best option due to its proven ability in high traffic situations and advanced anti-spam capabilities. The LINC server is also a complete firewall with custom configuration options to ensure protection of a network`s unique architecture, with active security alerts against any attempts to compromise security.
"For a business that wants a deploy-and-forget solution that works, the LINC Server is ideally suited," adds Leaver. "And if advanced customisation is required, as was the case for LegalWise, we are able to change the setup for the client quickly and easily without compromising the security or reliability of the system."
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