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Which Windows Server is Ideal for Your Business

14/03/11 @ 12:16am Peter Barbosa

Which Microsoft server option is the best fit for your business? The following are some key points to consider. Before we begin, let’s first discuss Linux. Yes, there are a few Linux options on the market; however, many of our clients prefer Microsoft, and so that is our focus as well.

Which Windows Server is best for my businessPlease note that this article is designed to be a starting point for your Server considerations. Ultimately, it is best for you to consult with us so we can further guide you in your decision-making process. When evaluating the various server options, it is important for us to understand how your business operates — from your line of products to your company culture to your financial systems to your communication efforts.

Microsoft now offers a complete and well-rounded product line that meets the demands of all businesses today. Below, we highlight recommendations on Microsoft server offerings based on how we believe they may fit your business needs:

Windows Home Server — This option is ideal for any home. WHS provides a centralized framework, which safeguards emails, letters, spreadsheets, home videos, family photos, and software databases (e.g. Quicken). This solution will easily allow your family and friends to share these files over the Internet, while safely backing up your cherished memories for future protection. This is also a great choice for micro-businesses who are looking for a very basic backup/storage solution.

Windows Foundation Server — This option offers a centralized security database, which controls access to your files, server resources, and remote access using AD (Active Directory). This product also allows you to leverage Terminal Services for remote access capabilities. If you have basic server needs, or if you are looking to combine local storage and business applications with online services like Hosted Exchange or SharePoint Services, than Windows Foundation Server is an ideal choice.

Windows Small Business Server — Perfect for small businesses looking for an enterprise solution that provides shared calendaring, data storage, company intranet, remote access, etc. Small Business Server offers Microsoft Exchange, SQL Server, Remote Web Workplace plus many core products to increase the productivity of your team and drive growth.

Windows Essential Business Server — Ideal for companies of 75+ employees. When your business reaches a point of growth where the computing power of SBS is simply not enough, then it is time to upgrade to Essential Business Server. EBS supports up to four different Microsoft Server solutions for the larger small business or small mid-market corporation. Some of the many features include management capabilities, security solutions leveraging Microsoft ForeFront, messaging through Microsoft Exchange and data storage with Microsoft SQL Server.

If you are considering any one of these servers, or have questions/concerns about your particular company’s needs, we’d be happy to have a conversation with you to discuss this further. Many times, our small business clients don’t realize the amount of money they could save or productivity they could add to their business by re-evaluating their current solutions.

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