Guide to Computer Servers for Small Business

Identify the features you need in a network server

File sharing is the starting point for all servers; it keeps your employees from having to pass important info around via email. Beyond that, there's a host of other features: groupware, security, support for mobile devices, an intranet. Security features vary; the more sensitive your data, the more robust your security should be. A firewall, anti-virus and anti-spam protection, and user authentication procedures such as passwords are basic elements. Begin by deciding which features are must-haves and how many users your server must support.

I recommend: Although it demands some rudimentary technical knowledge, the checklist for ServerWatch's comparison guide utility can help you make these choices. Also, Microsoft's list of its network server software's features may spark ideas.

Define your company's level of IT expertise

Take an office poll: Do your employees create networks for their home computers? Or do they belong to the "just-make-the-darn-thing-work" group? Do they regard new software as a headache or a toy? Installing a network server can range in complexity from requiring a dedicated IT professional to nearly plug-and-play. Decide how much you want to do in the way of computer server support. If the answer is "not much," choose a prepackaged option with technical support included.

I recommend: This is probably best answered simply by sending out a global email asking, "Can anyone here set up a server?" However, for fun, you can ask people to take InnerGeek's Geek Test or, more seriously, you can ask if anyone holds a Microsoft certification in servers.

Choose the computer server software you want

Microsoft's Small Business Server 2003 is widely used and comes preinstalled on many PC servers, but other options are available, including a variety of Linux-based software for open-source users. Your choices regarding features, compatibility and comfort level with various platforms should drive this decision.

I recommend: Popular OS options for a PC server include Microsoft or Linux.  Or peruse the categorized listings on Business.com and compare providers of mail servers or web servers.

Pick and purchase the server itself

Choosing the actual hardware comes down to price, compatibility and availability. Naturally, you can purchase servers directly from most of the major vendors or from one of the major electronics store chains.

I recommend: Some of the options include Dell, Gateway, Hewlett-Packard, Intel and Sun. Or have CompUSA or a similar retailer deliver one and install it. Go to InfoWorld or ServerWatch for reviews.

Your dedicated server and you

Rather than house your own netwrok server, you may choose to rent the use of a dedicated server from a hosting company.

I recommend: See Business.com listings of providers of dedicated server hosting, Windows Web hosting or colocation hosting.