What File Server Setup Would You Recommend For My Small Business?
Firstly I am a bit clueless when it comes to computer networking, so baby steps answers would be greatly appreciated.
I run a small resourcing company consisting of 2 people, and looking to expand to 5-6 in the next year. We will all be using normal laptops or desktops running either Windows XP or Vista.
I am looking to purchase a file server that will do things like store all backups from each person’s computer, run a CRM system that will store critical customer data, store emails, etc. I really don’t know much about this and hoping you can point me in the right direction. I don’t know much about configuring routers, etc. I am not looking for the cheapest option – I just want something that will be robust, be well supported, and do the job (i.e. not too many headaches). Please can you recommend a good setup and maybe some possible solutions.
Thanks in advance for your help.
As far as hardware, look into getting something from IBM. I work for a bank and we use X-series 225 servers. They were about $2500 a few years ago, so you may be able to pick up a reconditioned one for less than $1000.
I’m going to second the other answer of “get a local technician to do it” but make sure you have the following
RAID-5 – This may not mean much to you, but tell the technician that you want one; it’s the most robust type of storage you can get.
A server OS (Windows Server 2000, 2003, or some varieties of Linux), not windows XP/2000
An secondary backup medium (Tape or DVD)
A well defined backup plan
You may also want to consider getting a SAN device to store server backups to.
If you don’t have security issues, you can just take a desktop and shared some folder for stock different types files. To stock the emails, you can just ask your employee to left a copy in your email server, that’s it.
But if you want more security, windows 2000 server or windows 2003 server should be the better choice. First, you all are using windows system, it’s easy for you to handle it; Second, it’s easier for you in maintenance.
Daniel Wen
danielwbj@msn.com
http://dpatrading.com/dpacomputer
Start off with an entry level server. HP or Dell would be good brands. Look into Windows small business server. This is bundle package with server, exchange,firewall, and file and print sharing. Need to get a pro to install for you check this web link and find one in your area.
Best advice I can give you is to find a local shop that can help you with what you need. Any advice here would not be sufficient to answer all the questions that come from having a server and network.
Seriously, find a local computer person who people recommend and use him/her to help.
Hi,
for file server, mail server, and… whoa… almost everything buy PC box, do not have to be fast, with big Hard Drive and install Ubuntu Linux, this is one thing which is free and good.
and, packet which allow to share files is called Samba (is included in Ubuntu).