Linux Server Solutions...
I'm a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer. As such you might think that any solution I may provide will be based on their software. This is NOT the case.
Despite my qualifications, in certain circumstances I do NOT feel that offering a completely Micrsoft only solution is in the best interests of the client.
So, if you are in need of a new network server consider the following questions:
- Do you need a server to provide file and print services?
- Do you need a server to provide email services?
- Do you need a server to provide internet gateway and firewall services?
- Do you need remote access to your server through Virtual Private Networks?
- Do you want to host your own website?
- Do you want to provide a network server at minimal cost?
If you answer yes to any of these questions then a different (and cheaper) alternative is available to you.
Alternative Small Business Solution
SME Server
is a Linux based server solution, maintained
by the community. As such it has a large number of developers working
on its design and is currently installed in thousands of networks
worldwide.
It does everything a MS based file/print server can do and is specifically aimed at the small business community.
It is licensed under the GPL scheme. In essence, it's free to download and use. This is where you'll make great savings over the MS equivalent. There is no license fee for SME Server and there is no need to purchase any client access licenses - unlike MS server systems.
Moreover, it does not require the same level of computer specification in order to run it - another potentially large saving. Indeed, it is possible to use older kit that the latest versions of MS Windows have effectively made obsolete.
I know, this all sounds great. There is one area in which it cannot currently compete. If you use, or intend to use the groupware facilities provided by MS Exchange or the MS Exchange component of MS Small Business Server then SME Server is not an option other than being used as an additional server - perhaps in a remote office.
So, what will it cost you? Essentially, my time. But then, you'd still have to pay for that if you were looking at a purely Microsoft solution. But with no software to buy, and potentially no hardware.....
Why not give me a call to discuss your requirements? I'll then be able to advise if SME Server is a viable alternative in your case.