A file server is a necessity in any organization, it improves collaboration, simplifies backup, and improves security. A file server allows multiple users access to data stored in a single location. ACL’s (Access Control Lists) allow you to change which files and folders a user or group of users has access to. This is useful if you don’t want all your users to have access to sensitive information. Accessing data is easy, simply double click on My Computer or a shortcut on their desktop. Another benefit is that it simplifies your daily backup because all your important data is stored one location. It’s also possible to remotely access your data through ftp, terminal services, or a secured VPN. We specialize in both Microsoft and Linux solutions. If you are thinking of setting up a file server or have an existing file server in need of management give us a call.

Choosing a Workgroup or Domain

Windows File and Print sharing operates in two modes, domain and workgroup. Workgroups are ideal for home and small networks. Workgroups don’t have centralized authentication meaning access to files, printers, and other network resources are dictated by the individual computer hosting the resouce. Domains are ideal for business networks. Domains allow you to centrally manage which users have access to network resources and restrict what a individual users can do on their computer (ie: install programs, modify settings, etc).

File Server with Samba on Linux

Samba runs on Linux and provides file and print services for Windows clients. It offers many of the same features found in Microsoft File and Print sharing including a few of its own. Licensing costs are substantially lower and it requires fewer resources making it perfect for budget or legacy servers.

Remote Access to Your Files

Working away from the office has never been simpler. We can create a secured VPN tunnel so you can access your files via remote desktop, ftp or standard file sharing. Individual user access can be granted or revoked easily making it perfect for remote access. For more information click on VPN Server

Consolidating Network Printers

If you have multiple network printers changing a single setting can mean reconfiguring each workstation. By consolidating all your network printers onto a single server you’ll only need to change settings on one computer, changes will be transparent to the clients.

File Server Backup

Recovering data after a drive failure is costly. Since your data is stored in one location it’s important to backup your data. Depending on your needs we can setup a RAID array, offsite backup, tape or external hard drive backup.