SBS 2000 and ASDL with a fixed IP address

SBS2000 is a single package that includes

Network server
Web server for your Intranet
SQL server for database handling
ISA fire wall
Exchange Server for email and collaboration processes
VPN (Virtual Private network) support
If you are using any 2 of these services, it is cheaper to buy the SBS2000 software package than to buy them individually, and then you have the opportunity to use the rest as and when the need arises.

There are many unexpected facilities that this combination opens and they are dealt with in more details in other documents, but here is a list.

Olde version SBS4.5

The original bundle offered by Microsoft used cut down versions of each product, caused a lot of problems, and we would not recommend it to anybody. The later upgrade to SBS2000 is a very significant improvement and we use it ourselves, all the time.

Networking

Computer networks are a basic requirement for any business with more that 4 or 5 employees needing computer access. Up to that level you may be able to get away with a peer to peer network and some virtual services, thereafter the productivity gains become substantial. Bear in mind that the configuration of fire walls for security, back-up and anti virus software can be expensive and time consuming. But are expensive areas to skimp on.

VPN

enables you to allow other users who are not on site to join the network as if they were in house. The communication is encrypted and therefore reasonably safe. The users need to be using Win 2000 or above for easy set up and running. Normal permission control enables you to decide what the person on the server is allowed to see or change.

Exchange

Manages all the email and co-ordinates all the Outlook functions like calendars, tasks, contacts etc. You can set-up exchange so any of your staff can view their own version of Outlook from any computer with Internet access.
I find it really helpful to be able to manage all tasks through the task bar in Outlook.
I like to be able to log onto my Outlook with my PDA via my mobile phone and synchronise with Outlook (I also get the newspaper headlines at the same time).
I like being able to share all public contacts throughout the organisation and add a very simple CRM (Customer Record Manager) to each one.
And finally I like to be able to keep in touch by using email merge to that database.

This stuff is not easy, but once it is running it is incredibly powerful and produces real business results.

There are IT professionals who specialise in Exchange alone. They can make it do all sorts of wonderful tricks. Its own back-up, sharing files, maintenance to keep the pile of old emails under control, etc etc A talented amateur can do a lot with Exchange and it is fairly tolerant. But be prepared to ask for help on occasions.

SQL server

Is the enterprise version of Access Database. More versatile, more reliable, able to handle more simultaneous users, much quicker and harder to use.

Fantastic features for managing the synchronisation of databases held on various computers.

This is definitely not for the amateur.

Remote Support

The SBS 2000 has some very useful diagnostic features that track anything that has gone wrong, and will sometimes warn you of things that are about to go wrong. These warning can either be held in a log file, or sent out as an email to the responsible person.

One of the great features of the SBS2000/ASDL combination is that it will enable remote support. This means that we can assist when needed from our offices; initially with support from our experienced SBS2000 administrator, but with back up from specialists as necessary.