Servers
What are servers? A server is basically a computer or device on a network that manages network resources. This can be from a simple router or printer server to a full blown application server running thin clients.
Why are they important? Servers play an important part in keeping your network running smoothly. They can provide IP addresses to machines and equipment so every computer knows who they are talking to, they can also share internet connections. Other servers allow the sharing of files, while machines on a network can share files with each other, they do a much better job. They allow greater security over files and also file locking allowing more users to use the same files at the same time. This is very important when running databases and suck like.
Are they expensive? No, servers can be relatively cheap and setup on standard computer equipment. A simple email server can be set up for a few hundred pounds plus the price of a computer. File servers cost a little more needing specific operating systems to run, however, the advantages far outweigh the costs.
Hardware Needed
Most servers run on ordinary computer systems. This means that the out lay for equipment doesn't have to be huge. However, it is always best to take some added precautions when having a server. Extra cooling is recommended as servers are on for long periods of time, as are fast hard drives to server files quicker along with RAID to make instant copies of data encase of hardware failure. Back ups are also essential.
When ordering a server from PC-i Ltd we will always provide recommendations for best practices. Please contact us now to discuss your requirements.
File/Network Server
A computer, attached to a LAN, that runs a Network Operating System (nos). This lets the file server regulate communications among the workstations connected to it across the LAN, and to manage shared resources available on the file server, such as hard disk storage and printers. A file server may be dedicated: the computer is used only as a file server; or non- dedicated: the underlying computer that the LAN nos runs on is used for another task simultaneously, for example as a workstation.
Email Server
An email server collects all the email on a network and then allocates it to network users. This allows greater control over email, such as forwarding and multiple recipients.
Server Rental
Peer-to-peer network overworked, but can't afford to implement a file server, or haven't got the expertise?
Why not rent one from us? For a low affordable amount per month you could have your own Windows 2003 Server.
MS Exchange
Microsoft Exchange server is the market leader for email servers in small to medium sized organizations.
Not only does it do a first class job of providing emails, but also shared calendars and push/pull email to mobile devices.
Web Servers
Need and in house web server to link into your existing system, or to serve pages to a local intranet?
PC-i Ltd are experienced in providing Windows and Linux based servers, running either IIS or Apache.
LAN Email Server
Small companies can not always justify the cost of implementing an MS Exchange server. However, still require email, internet and fax routing.
We can provide a low cost alternative that gives you all of the above including, anti-virus, anti-spam and content filtering.