Why do businesses use servers?
One of the primary purposes of a server is to have a central place where a company can manage users, computers, settings, applications, security and network backups. The secondary purpose is to share and provide access to resources. Servers can make files, printers, or even the Internet available to users and computers on the network. In short, they move these resources from the various desktop computers to a centralized server that everybody can access.
Do you need a Server?
Whether you run a small business or a department inside a large enterprise, sooner or later you could benefit from a server. If you find that you need to back up office computers, share access to your files, printers, fax machines, or even share your calendar and schedule, a server is the right tool for the job.
Server benefits aside, you want to make purchases that will benefit your bottom line, facilitate business processes or make your life easier. Time is money - the information centralization and file-sharing features alone can provide an ROI within the first business quarter. In almost all cases a network server will actually save your company money and increase productivity.
What are the benefits of a server for my business?
| Preservation and protection of data by applying security parameters |
| Simplify management of files and backups |
| Sharing of network-connected peripherals such as scanners, printers and fax machines |
| Log on to any computer in the office and have your settings and files follow you. |
| Apply security settings, customize Internet Explorer, or even restrict what software a user or computer can run on your network. |
| Share calendars and schedules with Microsoft Exchange |
Servers require an IT department, right?
Not necessarily. With the advancements of remote management programs and system administration tools, almost all administration tasks can be done from our office, reducing site visits and saving you money.
The right server for you
The most important thing you can do to ensure that your server meets your needs and fits your budget is to devote a bit of time and energy to assessing those needs. Until you have a good understanding of exactly what you want to use your server for, you run the risk of not buying enough server power, or spending too much of your valuable budget on features you simply don't need. A little planning in the beginning can make for significant savings and proper equipment sizing in the end.
