Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2008 delivers the functionality of Microsoft's leading server products including Microsoft Windows Server, Microsoft Exchange and Microsoft SharePoint, all in one package and at a fraction of the cost of its full-fat counterparts. Thanks to Microsoft, small businesses no longer need suffer from cobbled-together IT.

Features at a Glance

• Centralisation of data
• Centralisation of administration and management
• Groupware functionality including shared calendars, contacts and task lists
• Remote access to your network from home
• Webmail functionality ensuring you can pick up your either whether in the office, at home or abroad
• Provision for backup
• Expandable up to 75 users
• Daily server performance logs
• Weekly user usage logs

Centralisation of Data

Many small businesses find themselves with an IT infrastructure that has grown organically. This can result in data being scattered across the network, often without backup. Introducing Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2008 allows business critical data to be consolidated. The benefits of this are:

• Availability - the data is always available to your staff
• Access control - access restrictions can be placed on certain data
• Reliability - the server platform provides measures to protect your data in the event hardware failure
• Comprehensive backup - once consolidated, running backups of all critical data becomes a simple, overnight task

Groupware Functionality

Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2008 includes Microsoft Exchange, which provides a centralised store for all your company's e-mail, contacts and calendars. This has many benefits, including:

• Collaboration - access to this information can be shared, as required, throughout your organisation
  • Shared calendars for individuals, groups and even resources such as a boardroom or pool vehicle
  • Shared contacts - address book of sales contacts, employee details etc.
  • Shared tasks - departmental to-do lists
  • Shared mailboxes - e.g. sales@example.com, enquiries@example.com, tickets@example.com etc.
• Comprehensive backup - all Exchange data is backed up during regular backups
• Accountability - e-mails can be tracked and monitored on the server if required
• Real-time e-mail delivery possible to mobile devices with Microsoft Windows Mobile 5/6

Remote Working / Roaming

Microsoft Small Business Server 2008 provides out-of-the-box features that allow your staff to work remotely, with your permission.

• Virtual Private Network (VPN) - effectively extends your company network into a home office allowing secure access to all your centralised information
• Webmail - access your company e-mail using a web browser on any PC with an Internet connection
• Direct Push technology - receive your e-mail on your mobile device