baggytrousers

Hi

I'm at my wit's end

We currently use a basic XP network in our office but have since grown rapidly, meaning that we require a multi-location computer network and have outgrown the capabilities of XP.

We're going for Server 2003. I've done my research, and read parts of Mr Minasi's 'Mastering Server 2003' book but i'm still left scratching my head aso what would be out best option.

As we do not have in-house expertise, we are currently looking to outsource the hosting of the future domain controller to a third party. It will act as a file server and nothing more, with applications being run on client PCs. We have two locations and i've been advised that we should run two VPNs, one at each location, with both linking to the outsourced domain controller. I have been advised that the speed of file access would not be great, but i know i'll be looking at a hefty price for the outsourcing of the service.

So, my question(s) is this - would you advise somebody with limited knowledge to run Server 2003 as the domain controller from their own office? What would the implications of running it ourselves be? Would the connection be quicker, bearing in mind the server would be in the same building as most of us? As well as the server, what additional hardware would need to be purchased i.e. additional firewalls?

I know these are general questions but I'm eager not make the wrong decision and squander lots of money which is not mine...and hence lose a future bonus which is mine.

Any help you can offer would be GREAT!!!

Thanks

Tom

XtabbedoutX

How many employee's are we talking about(total between both locations)?

If all you are needing is a file server this is a very easy accomplishment with minimal cost compared to off site hosting.

Are both of the offices in metro areas(this will help with internet speeds)?

Please provide more info as to your current setup as this will help me evaluate what would be the best options for you.

baggytrousers

Thanks for the reply.

We will have 10 staff, possibly growing to 15 over the coming year, who will require access.

I'm not to sure on the meaning of 'metro', but hope the info below helps.

There will be 5 desktops, all based in the same office. All desktop terminal users will have high speed cat5 broadband connections. This is also where the server would be based, should we decide not to outsource it.

There will be a further 5 laptops, which will not have fixed locations. They will use 3G USB wireless modems, with 7.2mbps connection. The employees using laptops will be mobile and working on several projects, so they will not spend much time in an office.

The levels of data transfer will be low.

We currently run an xp network, but due to opening up the network to new employees we need to restrict file and user permissions drastically, which is why we are heading towards Server 2003. It would be better to invest the time and funds now so that we have the infrastructure with which to grow further, if we get the luck we need.

Hope this is enough info...let me know if not.

Cheers

Tom

XtabbedoutX

I would go for a base model server running server 2003 R2 or SBS 2003 standard(dell is usually a good choice for servers)

I have mobile users and they connect through 3G data cards + use a mobile user VPN client which links them back to the network. You can get a basic firewall that has the ability to support VPN users.

From what you have described you could probably accomplish the setup you need for around $1,500-$2,000 that option would also allow for future expansion beyond 15 employee's.

If you need any help or suggestions on what kind of hardware or setup just post back.

baggytrousers

Super.

What's the speed of the network like when connecting through the 3G data cards? For example, a simple task such as double clicking into a network drive and through a few folders?

Do you have issues with network reliability? The main thrust behind considering an outsourced host is the near 100% service availability they can provide.

I had a look at the Dell units earlier and thought that a Quad Core, 2gb RAM, 160gb harddrive would be sufficient, with SBS 2003 as the OS. Does this sound vaguely right? The hosting companies seem to go a little overboard when making their recomendations.

What firewall hardware/software would you recommend?

XtabbedoutX

If you are using data cards that are in a 3G network + using a VPN the speeds are pretty decent. The quality is generally pretty good but just like all technology there is always bumbs along the way, it's just the way things happen.

If I were you I would go with a basic server from dell (I can give a the name and # of a good rep if need be)

As for a firewall that supports VPN, Watchguard is what I use, and suites us perfectly. A X10e from Watchguard would suffice you. You will need to purchase additional MUVPN Licenses since this model only comes with 1.

I believe this info should give you a great step in the right direction. Let me know if you need any more help.

clyde123

I agree, I don't see the need for external hosting of this setup. A Win Server 2003 R2 in your office, with the laptops accessing by VPN is definitely the way to go.
Just a note on 3G though : you don't say where you are - be aware that in some countries / areas, 3G is very patchy. I don't know about the US, but certainly in Europe outside the biggest cities you might struggle to get decent reception. In which case, the connection might revert back to the equivalent of a 56k modem, but that depends on your internet contract.
The hardware spec you mention sounds good for this purpose, but as Ram is so cheap right now I would say get 4 Gb. Also the difference up to 250Gb drive is only about £10 (US$20) - get the best you can afford within reason. Don't forget a backup system - EXTREMELY important. Do your shopping around, it's a buyer's market, just make sure you get genuine MS software and the original discs.
Lastly if you don't know Windows Server, you'll need to contract someone who does, to set it all up for you, and maintain it later on. It is much different from XP. A good person to handle this will be worth taking care of.