8 Reasons Your Business Needs a Server

1. You can create order from chaos.

By centralizing data on a server, you can better manage business-critical information. Sharing files and other data across PCs becomes much easier, as does migrating data from one PC to another. Older PCs can get new life if their files and data are off-loaded onto a server. Many people are buying servers and opting not to dump their old PCs and laptops.

2. You can protect your data by making backups easier.

Backup Configuration Wizard and Volume Shadow Copy, two features of Windows Small Business Server 2003, enable users to better protect their data assets by simplifying backups and the restoration of critical data.

3. You can collaborate better as a business.

Not only is data sharing easier with a server-based network, but Small Business Server 2003 comes with Windows SharePoint Services, software that enables your employees and other team members to collaborate via the Web. With SharePoint, you get a company intranet portal with a user-friendly interface to organize and share information. A server also is a must if you want to run line-of-business applications, such as accounting solutions from Microsoft Business Solutions-Great Plains, on multiple PCs.

4. You can accommodate a mobile work force.

Servers let authorized out-of-office workers have remote access to your network, enabling data sharing among those who travel, telecommute or work in off-site locations. Through Remote Web Workplace, users of Small Business Server 2003 can get access to server data via the Internet. Out-of-office workers also can connect to the company intranet via SharePoint.

5. You can share high-speed broadband access.

Provide high-speed Internet access across a network. If you are running a business now that has three or more dial-up accounts, it's time to get a server and go broadband. The return on investment will come quickly in the form of higher productivity.

6. You can set up new computers, add users and deploy new applications more quickly and easily.

Expect to grow? By managing your data from a central location, you can coordinate the addition of new PCs, software licenses and software applications. You can also better manage firewalls and monitor data threats, and more easily deploy virus protection.

7. You can get more processing power.

A server can super-charge your network, storing large chunks of data, freeing up memory and enabling individual PCs to perform better. Small business today need power to run Web services, manage Web sites, do e-mail newsletters, and use more sophisticated tools.

8. You can look more professional and connect better with Customers

Small Business Server 2003 enables you to consolidate your e-mail accounts (i.e hotmail, AOL…) into a single, company-hosted e-mail account, enhancing your image to potential customers and partners.

excerpts of article from www.bcentral.com