Network and Server Basics

6/1/20152 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 Network and Server Basics

6/1/20153 What Is a Network?

6/1/20154 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 and may not be offered by all server products. Network and Server Basics

6/1/20155 Types of Networks

6/1/20156 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

6/1/20157 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

6/1/20158 Network Components

6/1/20159 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

6/1/ 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

6/1/ The Server Operating System An operating system is the software that runs the server. With Windows Small Business Server 2003, you can: Maximize employee productivity. Windows Small Business Server 2003 enables you to: Store, find, and share information in one centralized location. Provide employees with an internal Web site so they can find and share documents and collaborate on group projects. Access information (contacts, , calendars, network files, internal Web sites, business applications) while away from the office. Keep your business up and running. Windows Small Business Server 2003 enables you to: Protect your business information by providing a secure infrastructure, including built-in firewall protection and secure remote access. Prevent data loss by automatically backing up company information and enabling your employees to retrieve accidentally deleted files and restore earlier versions of files. Network and Server Basics

6/1/ The Server Operating System An operating system is the software that runs the server. With Windows Small Business Server 2003, you can: Work while away from the office. Windows Small Business Server 2003 enables you to: Use Remote Web Workplace to access information on your desktops, network files, internal Web sites, and applications from any PC with Internet access. Use Microsoft ® Office Outlook ® Web Access to access , contacts, and calendars. Access , calendars, and contact information from Windows Mobile™-based devices. Connect with their customers. Windows Small Business Server 2003 enables you to: Connect with customers more professionally by hosting your own company Web site and . Stay connected with customers from virtually anywhere, anytime using Windows Small Business 2003’s mobility solutions (Remote Web Workplace, Outlook Web Access, and Windows Mobile software integration). Streamline customer communications by providing one-to-many fax and capabilities. Network and Server Basics

6/1/ Additional Resources

6/1/ Additional Resources Network and Server Basics More Information about Windows Small Business Server 2003 General Product Information FAQ How to Buy Small Business Server Microsoft Small Business Center News and Reviews Microsoft Small Business Newsletter: eNews