FAQ

Your Server Questions, Answered

3. Can I use a desktop as a server?

Desktops on a local area network (LAN) can share files on a peer-to-peer basis. If that is all you need in terms of networking, then you don't need a server. Though you could place shared files on a desktop on your network, that desktop's processor and memory will be slowed by multiple users accessing the files making that machine's performance and security issues everyone's issues. Servers are intended to accommodate multiple users and, properly configured, will provide more efficient file sharing on a network than a desktop.

4. How many users should I have in my office before investing in a server?

If no one is sharing files, then you never need a server. Regardless of the number of people, if they exchange files only occasionally they can use USB memory sticks or send file attachments to via e-mail. But if file sharing is the norm in your office, you should consider a server if you have more than five people. On the other hand, a server is a necessity if you want to share a printer, run your office e-mail system, use applications with a shared database, maintain a firewall, or run Web software.

5. How does a server connect to the Internet?

Servers used for Internet connections typically have two Ethernet network ports: one connects to the modem provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and the other connects to your office's networking hub and from there in turn to the other computers on the network (see diagram).

When an Internet-connected server is configured properly, other workstations on the office network can access the Internet through the server. Gateway routers can also be used to share Internet access in a small office, but cannot provide other functions that servers can, such as office e-mail, file sharing, or encrypted access from another point on the Internet via a software technology called VPN (virtual private networking).

6. When will I need more than one server in my office?

For most applications, in most settings, a modern server can handle about 50 simultaneous users. If the users check their e-mail only occasionally, the server can probably handle several times that number. If the users are producing and accessing large video files, 50 users may be too many for acceptable performance. It all depends upon how your organization uses your server.

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