Windows 2003 Small Business Server Remote Access is now affordable, easy and secure.

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Windows 2003 SBS is now on the market. Microsoft has long bundled all the core products in the Small Business Server edition of Windows OS Server, Exchange Email server, Proxy/ISA (software firewall), and SQL for a lower price than purchasing all of them separately and then marketed it to small businesses (under 50 computers). But most small businesses did not need the firewall solution or SQL server and thus paid for something they did not need.

Microsoft seems to be listening. With the introduction of 2003, they divided SBS into Standard and Premium editions. Many law firms and small business will be very pleased to use the Standard edition which starts at $599, which includes 5 users with each additional user for $99.00.

Remote Access made easy.

One of the more interesting feature is the remote access to not only the server but the office computers running Windows XP Professional. In the past, it was required for a law firm or business to have many IP addresses to access the computers through the internet or use a port redirection from a single IP address. (Click image to enlarge)

With Windows 2003 SBS, a user can log into a single web page and see ALL the servers and workstations available and then just simply click on the computer name. The connection is using a secure VPN connection through a single IP address and a single port. From a security management point of view, this is even better than opening up so many ports through firewall.

Are Terminal Servers and Citrix servers needed?

With the remote access features built into Windows 2003 SBS coupled with Windows XP Professional, law firms and small business which have not already invested in a Terminal Server or Citrix server may not have a need. In the past, such servers were needed for the workers who wished to work from home on occasions and remote offices. If there is not a remote office and all the computers are Windows XP Professional, the home worker will have an easy and fast connection back to their office computer.

But Terminal Servers and Citrix will still be a desirable solution when there is a remote office, or Windows 2000 or lower operating system in the mix. With the stability of Windows XP and the remote access features, the lower operating systems should be upgraded. Then the only factor left in deciding if a Terminal Server is needed— Is there a remote office?

Lan-Tech can assist you with your evaluation and upgrade to Windows 2003 SBS. With our years of experience serving law firms and business throughout the US, we can assist in making the right selection and then performing a proper and reliable installation. Please call 770-514-0400 for a consultation or upgrade.