Small Office Server/Network Setup

[Chris Bates]

Hey Guys,

Time for some brain picking! I just had a meeting with a small business (bakery) that wants a complete revamp of their infrastructure. And they badly need it! Problem is, I've never really done a proper server/client implementation, so I'm looking for advice on the actual setup.

They have 3 PCs and 2 Printers at the moment, in 6-12 months they're looking to add another 2-3 PCs. They share a small amount of data, main one being common MYOB access. But they also want a backup solution (for all server and user data) that they don't have to fiddle with every night.

My thinking so far:
I'm going to set them up with an entry level server with MS Server Foundation, as it will suit their needs now and in the future.

1) Networking
Should it be networked Internet -> Modem -> Server -> Switch -> (Local Network)?
Is it safe enough to use the server as the firewall, or should I utilize one of their old PCs as a dedicated firewall and have the main server behind the switch?

2) Server
Should I use a separate PC (like the ones we'll be replacing) as a file server, or just use the server itself for file storage?

3) Configuration
Any good articles on the actual setup of an MS Server? I'd like to set them up with user accounts with user network drives. That way all private user, and shared data, is stored in one place for easy backup. But have never done this, so would need to teach myself first.

4) Backup
They want a no-fuss backup solution. I'm thinking a NAS for the most part, and maybe a separate NAS/USB Drive that the owner can bring in once a fortnight for a larger backup. I'm going to give them some info on Online Backup, but not sure if they'll go for it. Will MS Server handle backup itself, or is there a better program to use?

I sound like a complete noob, but I'd really appreciate the advice!

Cheers,
Chris

[Ken Wood]

The brutal truth: if you look at it objectively, you can't justify putting in a server, firewall, backup etc for a little company with only 3-6 users.

It's never going to make financial sense, let alone carrying the risk that they DON'T consistently follow the backup processes, store their tapes offsite, keep their PCs & servers patched up to date, monitor their firewall for intrusions etc etc.

I realise this may go against your livelihood, but the best outcome for the client would be to sign them up to a subscription for a thin client-based managed service with one of our competitors.

For a tiny business like that it'll be more reliable, lower risk and lower overall cost than owning and managing all their own gear.

Regards,
Ken

[Chris Bates]

You're right, that goes again my livelihood! :P I did consider virtualization, however I think they would prefer a more tangible solution.

I've signed up for a trial of IT on Tap to checkout what you can offer (as I noted you did affiliate/franchise). I've also started looking into what's involved with setting up my own VMWare server and striking it out on my own.

Exciting times!

[Ken Wood]

Originally Posted by Chris Bates

I've also started looking into what's involved with setting up my own VMWare server and striking it out on my own.

The only thing I'll say is that you will need very deep pockets to do it properly...

Cheers,
Ken

[soliddata]

Guys I have to make a point here - a small business of that size would not be using tapes these days for backup. They are right smack in the sweet spot for online backups, which removes those problems you mentioned with backups.

When I look at new customers my various resellers are setting up, I am finding Small Business Servers are being utilised for smaller networks than before due to the price point being competitive.

Chris give me a yell if you want to offer online backup as part of your solution - I can give you sample proposals.

Kevin

[Chris Bates]

Hey Kevin,

I was meaning to contact you actually, do send me some info to chris@techmonkeys.com.au

There's no way I'd set a business of that size up with tapes :P

Cheers,
Chris

[soliddata]

Emails sent.

Ta

Kev

[marvelit]

Whats wrong with tapes? They are one of the most wideley used types of backups used to this day, and do a fantastic job at a decent price.

There is still so many questions missing from your initial post before I could give you more advice.

Do they own a domain?

Do they need access to their emails from home?

Do they want to run, or need an exchange server?

Do they have users who need access to some data, but also should not have access to other files/ folders?

Backing up to a NAS can have the following problems:

If you backup over night, what if there is a blackout, are you going to have redundant power for it AND the server?

What if they get robbed or burn down, they have no data off site? That means every piece of data would be gone.

Are you going to monitor the nas to make sure it is getting backed up properly, if so, what software are you going to use?

In regards to internet and network and manage services:

Can they get business grade ADSL2+ in their area?

How much data do they have, and do they use SQL databases for any of their products?

Does the software they use provide you the use of VSS?

How much data allowance do they get VS how much they are uploading a month?

how much per GB is the managed services backup plans?


It is very easy to blowout a budget as you can see from the questions above. Managed services like exchange / terminal servers and backups do suit some businesses, but not all.

If you have not setup a server before, I would suggest not selling one to a client if you dont know what you are doing. This could be a HUGE recipie for disaster, and I have seen it happen too many times by people who are in the "IT industry" and have been ripped off and had to have alot of things redone by me.

best thing to do to learn would be to setup a VM at home and setup your own exchange server / domain / even terminal server so you know how eveyrthing works.

[Chris Bates]

I think you've missed the scale of this project. They do not need SQL or Exchange servers, nor do they want VMs or remote access, they are a micro business performing general office tasks. The most complex they get, is MYOB (which they want shared access to).

The server I have sourced for them is an entry level one, with Windows Server Foundation. It's main purpose really is for data collaboration, but also for the use of AD.

They want a low fuss solution, especially in the form of backup. The use of External HDD as a backup medium is for it's portability. I can set the owner up with a couple drives that he can rotate regularly. It's not a fool proof backup plan, but it's one limited by cost and capability, so it's the best they can achieve for now.

I appreciate your efforts, but I don't plan to just plug it in and hope it works. I'll spend my own time and efforts with the server before I take it to the business.

[marvelit]

if they are a micro business then why do they need active directory?

a low fuss solution cant really be given unless they have a budget to support it imho.

Also, alot of software uses SQL databases, doesnt matter how small or big they are.

You need to investigate all avenues before you provide a solution for someone is all im saying.