If you haven’t set up a server in your business, perhaps you’re overwhelmed by the idea of researching the subject. Or, maybe you have limited staff to help you accurately determine your technology needs. At one time, servers were used only by large companies because of their high cost and complexity. But today, there are affordable and easy-to-implement server systems designed for small businesses.

What is Server?
A server is a single, specialized computer that is used to centralize information and resources. This computer is loaded with server software that is designed to perform specific tasks such as file sharing, print processing, and Internet connectivity for each of the network’s “clients”—which include individual computers, mobile devices, and printers. Here’s how you know it’s time to buy a server: Review the following scenarios and make a check mark next to any that apply to your business. If you check more than one, then you should consider adding a server.

• You have two or more computers in your business that you need to connect.
• You need to save money by sharing equipment and resources such as printers, fax machines, and Internet connectivity.
• You need to protect business information and your network from unauthorized users.
• You need to back up information.
• You need to restore accidentally deleted files or previous versions of files.
• You need to access company information and resources while away from the office.
• You need to store, access, and share information in one central location.
• You need to manage different versions of files.
• You need to easily schedule group meetings and communicate efficiently with colleagues.
• You need to a tool to share ideas and information with your colleagues.
• You need to present a professional image by hosting your own Web site and e-mail system.
• You need to communicate more effectively with customers, partners, and suppliers.

1. Protect your business and prevent data loss

   A more secure infrastructure protects your business from unauthorized users and data loss with:

   • Built-in firewall protection and security-enhanced remote access.
   • Tools to manage and monitor Internet access, block spammers, and automatically remove dangerous e-mail attachments to help prevent virus attacks.
   • Automatic data backup and the ability to retrieve and restore previous versions.

2. Get the "green check" of software health

   Automated patch and update management tools keeps PCs and servers up to date, and a daily report is e-mailed to you (or your IT consultant) so you can identify issues before they occur. A green check indicates that your system is healthy, or the report details actions necessary for attaining "green check" status.

3. Keep your business up and running with a reliable network

   Built on Windows Server 2003 technology, the most reliable network operating system Microsoft has ever produced, SBS 2003 R2 delivers an operating system you can depend on.

4. Optimize your Windows investment

   Built on Windows technology, SBS 2003 R2 enables you to benefit from efficiencies and savings inherent in having an integrated network.

   • Reduce training with familiar Microsoft products and tools.
   • Run your application of choice: a powerful database in the Premium Edition supports the largest selection of business software applications.
   • Microsoft products are designed to work together, so applications and hardware integrate effortlessly.

5. Increase productivity with one central location for company data

   SBS 2003 R2 provides a central location to store your company data, so employees can:

   • Quickly find the right information.
   • Share record keeping.
   • Communicate and collaborate on group projects.

6. Access business information and resources from virtually anywhere, anytime

   Be productive, whether you're out of the office, at home, or on the road.

   • Securely access your e-mail, internal Web sites, network files, and even business applications from any PC with an Internet connection.
   • Easily access e-mail, schedules, and contacts from virtually anywhere, at anytime using a Microsoft Windows Mobile-based or Smartphone device.
   • Communicate in real time to stay current with your company and customers

7. Reduce costs by sharing printers, Internet access, faxes, and more

   As a complete network solution, SBS 2003 R2 enables your business to get more done with what you already have.

   • Share resources, like Internet access and business software.
   • Share equipment, including printers and fax machines.
   • Fax with fewer phone lines and send faxes directly from PCs.
   • SBS 2003 R2 is easy for your IT consultant to install and maintain, helping to lower the costs of network management.

8. Present a more professional image

   Get the tools you need to help create a strong brand, including a customized Web site that resides on your server – no sharing of your domain name with a Web hosting company. And with your own e-mail domain hosted on your server, there's no sharing of your address with an Internet service provider. SBS 2003 R2 helps you build credibility with your customers.

9. Stay connected to your customers and serve them better

   With SBS 2003 R2, you can stay more connected, present a professional appearance, and manage your customer relationships more effectively. Server technology can streamline customer communications, allowing you to:

   • Access the facts you need in real time.
   • Respond to customer inquires more quickly and accurately.
   • Stay connected while on the road with remote access capabilities.

10. Get a platform that is easy to grow for today and tomorrow

    SBS 2003 R2 is a robust, flexible platform that can be customized to your needs. Affordable today and scalable for tomorrow, it provides a solid "technology building block" for future technology enhancements to your business. SBS 2003 R2 has the flexibility to grow with your company. As your business expands, you can add additional servers and migrate seamlessly to the full line of Windows Server System products.