Network and Server Basics

Learning Objectives After viewing this presentation, you will be able to: Understand the benefits of a client/server network. Recognize the differences between a peer-to-peer network and a client/server network. Define the components of a network. Understand the unique benefits of Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2. Network and Server Basics

What is a Network?

A network is a group of computers connected to each other to share information. Networks help businesses work smarter by allowing them to: 1. Share and protect resources. Networks centralize data so it can be shared with appropriate people while preventing access from unauthorized users. In addition, data can be backed up to protect against loss.* 2. Improve efficiency. Employees are more efficient when important files, computer programs, and Internet access are available to them all the time. A network with remote access capability enables employees to access and other information quickly and easily whether they're in the office or on the road.* 3. Reduce costs. Networks allow many users to access one device or service, eliminating the need for extra printers, modems, and Internet accounts. *These features are included with Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 and may not be offered by all server products. Network and Server Basics

Types of Networks

Peer-to-peer Networks: Use cables to link together multiple computers and other devices such as printers and fax machines. Offer a simple, low-cost, easy solution for sharing files, printers, and other devices. Do have drawbacks: data may be lost if one computer crashes, or access to information may not always be available if the computer is turned off. There are two main types of networks: Peer-to-peer networks and client/server networks. Peer-to-peer Network Network and Server Basics

Types of Networks Client/server Networks: Use a single, specialized computer (the server) as the central hub. Connect individual desktop PCs, laptops, printers, or mobile devices. Allow users to be more productive because they can share files, business applications, Internet access, and equipment. Decrease the risk of data loss if a PC's hard drive crashes because all information saved on the server can be backed up. Client/server Network Network and Server Basics

Network Components

These components can make up a network : Server: A specialized computer connecting multiple devices and managing shared resources Desktops and Notebooks: Machines employees use to access the Internet and information Network Switches: Used to connect client computers and servers together Routers: Used to connect and manage data traffic between two networks Cables: Used to connect workstations together and to the server Network Interface Card: Connection point on a PC, workstation, or server that allows the computer to talk to the rest of the network Software: Facilitates communication among the workstations and the server Firewalls: Protect networks from unauthorized access Network and Server Basics

The Server and its Operating System

The Server What is a Server? A server is a specialized computer dedicated to managing shared resources. A server manages access to other devices such as printers, fax machines, and other computers. A server also manages access to files and data such as financial files, graphics, and business presentations. Network and Server Basics

The Server Operating System: Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 An operating system is the software that runs the server. With Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2, you can: Keep your business up and running. Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 enables you to: Protect business information by providing a secure infrastructure, including built-in firewall protection and security-enhanced remote access. Help ensure network health by keeping your PCs and servers current with the latest updates. Identify technology issues before they occur with an operating system that provides a working environment your employees can depend on. Prevent data loss by automatically backing up company information. Employees can easily retrieve accidentally deleted files and restore previous versions. Network and Server Basics

The Server Operating System: Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 An operating system is the software that runs the server. With Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2, you can: Do more with less. Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 enables you to: Get the most value from your technology investment by sharing resources and equipment, such as Internet access, printers and fax machines. Store, find, and share information in one centralized location. Work from anywhere with access to information (contacts, , calendars, network files, internal Web sites, business applications) from any PC with Internet connectivity. Reduce costs, since it is easy to install and manage, lowering costs of overall network management. Improve team performance with an Internal company Web site, where employees can find and share files and work on group projects. Network and Server Basics

The Server Operating System: Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 An operating system is the software that runs the server. With Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2, you can: Connect with your customers. Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 enables you to: Connect with customers while at home or on the road with access to business information and resources ( , calendars, contacts, internal Web site, network files, business applications, and more) from any PC with Internet access. In addition, SBS 2003 R2 easily integrates with Windows Mobile-based devices, allowing your employees to access their , contacts, calendar and more from virtually anywhere, at anytime. Streamline customer communications by providing one-to-many fax and capabilities. Present a professional image using tools to help you create a strong brand for your company, including a customized Web site and personalized communications. Streamline customer communications with one-to-many capabilities and a shared contact database to manage customer information. Employees can also create and send faxes right from their desktops. Network and Server Basics

Additional Resources

Network and Server Basics More Information about Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 General Product Information How to Buy SBS 2003 R2 Microsoft Small Business Center Microsoft Small Business Newsletter: eNews

Network and Server Basics © 2006 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. This presentation is for informational purposes only. Microsoft makes no warranties, express or implied, in this summary.