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What is a server?
It may look like any other computer but a server is the Swiss Army knife of
business computing. It won’t take stones out of a horse’s shoe but it will do a
lot for your business.
The software that controls a server computer, known as the operating
system, is the thing that makes it all work. SBS 2003 combines Microsoft’s
latest server operating system with programs designed specifically for growing
companies. (view
diagram of SBS 2003 capabilities)
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Solving Business Problems
It may come as a surprise how useful a server could be in solving
everyday business problems.
SBS 2003 can help:
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Cut down on unnecessary paperwork
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Store electronic documents in an easy-to-access digital filing
cabinet
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Share printers, internet connections, fax machines and files
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Manage people’s diaries electronically
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Keep track of staff holidays
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Reduce security risks from hackers and viruses
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Protect your data against disasters or accidental deletions
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Allow people to work away from the office or at home
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Pick up your email on a Smartphone or Pocket PC
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Get your business online with a professional email address
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Keep track of customer information
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What is a network?
A network links computers together so that they
can access shared resources like internet connections, files, fax machines and
printers. Network links are made using wires that are similar to phone cables
but increasingly businesses use wireless networks which use radio links instead
of physical connections. A server computer running a network operating system
like SBS 2003, is used in the centre of this network and controls all network
activity. Sometimes businesses set up an ad-hoc network without a server,
sometimes called a peer-to-peer network. This can work very well when there are
only a couple of PCs to connect, but it does not offer the flexibility, ease of
management, reliability or security of a server-based network.
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