How to know if it’s time for a server

Confused about what a server does, why you need one, and how it will help your business? There are many advantages to having a server, including greater connectivity with your customers and colleagues, and improved information security. Take a few minutes to learn more about the potential benefits.

What is a server?

A server is a technology solution that performs services for other computers or ‘clients’, which might include printers, faxes, emails etc, as well as other computers. It enables you to work remotely and work more effectively with colleagues and present a more professional image to your customers. It also helps you manage IT administrative tasks, such as user accounts and passwords, grant or restrict access to shared resources and automatically back up your data and access business information remotely.

	Find a Small Business Specialist near you who can offer advice
	Download ‘The 20-minute guide to technology for growing businesses’

A typical, small client/server network

How do I know if I need a server?

If you can put a tick against a few of the following statements it may be time to consider a server.

You have two or more computers in your business that you need to connect.	√	You need to protect business information and your network from unauthorised users.	√
You want to be able to see the calendars of your colleagues to easily schedule meetings	√	You need a reliable process to back up information and you need to store, access, and share information in one central location.	√
You need to save money by sharing equipment and resources such as printers, fax machines, and Internet connectivity. You need to access company information and resources while away from the office.	√	You need to manage different versions of files.	√
You’d like to send and receive emails and calendar updates on your mobile phone or PDA.	√	You need to present a professional image and manage your customer relationships more effectively.	√
You like the idea of staying connected to your customers, even when you’re not at your desk.	√	You’re not using company domain email addresses ie name@yourcompany and are instead using the likes of hotmail and gmail	√

Next steps

Now you know what a server is and what it does, explore these additional resources and learn more about the potential gains for your business productivity.

	Learn more about Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2008 and the benefits it could offer your company
	Download: Top 10 reasons to use Windows Small Business Server 2008
	How to buy
	Ask the Expert: Is it time to buy a server?
	Case study: Small event management company improves productivity and competitiveness.