Server Benefits

1. FILE AND NETWORK SECURITY

The most important role of a file server is the network security it provides. By creating individual user and group accounts, rights can be assigned to the data stored on the network preventing unauthorized users from accessing materials they shouldn't be viewing. For example, the sales team doesn't need access to employee personal records which should only be accessible by HR.

2. INCREASED RELIABILITY; DECREASED WORKFLOW INTERRUPTIONS

Many servers are equipped with redundant power supplies. With a secondary power supply running in tandem, the loss of one of the power supplies doesn't affect normal system operations. The same goes for a server's storage system.

Unlike an average desktop PC that uses a single hard drive, a server will typically use multiple hard drives working in a RAID configuration to prevent data loss or an interruption in workflow. In addition, many servers are also equipped with hot swappable hard drives and power supplies. These hot swappable components allow you to replace faulty hardware without interrupting the entire office. In addition, since all employee data is being stored on the network, if a user's workstation fails mid-workday, employees can access the same files from another workstation.

3. CENTRALIZED DATA STORAGE AND SHARED RESOURCES

With a network server, all of the users on the network can make use of various network resources right from their desks, increasing efficiently.

Some of these resources include the following:

• Centralized data storage (RAID Array);
• Network Attached Storage (NAS) Devices;
• CD/DVD Towers;
• Printers and Fax servers.

4. VIRUS MANAGEMENT

One of the greatest threats to your network is the possibility of infection from viruses, spyware and spam. So having good, updated, anti-virus software installed on your systems is a necessity. In an office of 10 people or less, systems can be maintained individually. Anything more than that, though, can become a real burden.

In those circumstances, an anti-virus package that combines workstation and server virus protection into a single solution makes more sense.

5. CENTRALIZED BACKUP

All businesses should backup their data on a regular basis. By having all of your company and employee data stored in one location, backups can be performed reliably and quickly.
So you'll never need to worry about what data is stored on what workstation as you do in a peer-to-peer network. Today, almost any media type can be used for backup purposes. In addition to the traditional tape drive, CDs, DVDs, removal storage and even Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices are acceptable. Your choice of media will depend on your specific backup requirements. Depending on your budget and your data retention needs, any of these would be an acceptable solution.

Make sure you have at least a scheduled weekly backup, although a daily would be better.

Finding the Right Server

A true server operating system makes all of this possible, and you're going to need to invest in a good one to get the most out of your new hardware. When it comes to choosing an operating system for your server, there really aren't a lot of options - Windows or Linux. A Linux-based OS does a fine job. It's reliable and has modest hardware requirements.

No matter which you choose, you'll need a qualified technician to install and configure them properly.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SERVER

Servers are the unsung heroes of the corporate computing environment, working behind the scenes to help get the maximum benefit from the personal computers that people use every day. Before investing in server hardware, you need to consider applications, storage, processor, form factor, and more.