Server and client software - a little help pls

Warbie · 13 Jun 2007 at 14:26

I'm trying to decided on which operating system/s use with a small network of 10-16 pcs and a single server. The network will be used in an internet cafe for general browsing, emails and printing.

Is something like MS Small Business Server necessary? (with the client licences this works out to be quite costly), or could we get away with just XP proffesional? I assume the server will need some kind of server os? (i'm new to anything to do with servers)

Any advice will be much appreciated.

Warbie · 13 Jun 2007 at 15:36

That's the thing. The owners want to provide a very basic service - internet browsing, emails, printing, and that's pretty much it. I can't see the server being used for anything more demanding than print sharing - which is why i'm wondering whether an expensive server OS is required at all.

Initially there will be 11 workstations - so worst case scenario would be them all wanting to print something at the same time.

Warbie · 13 Jun 2007 at 15:47

Good suggestion. I was wondering whether a server was needed at all - a network enabled printer could well be the answer.

What does setting up a master machine involve btw? I've heard the term used a few times before but am not really sure.

Warbie · 13 Jun 2007 at 16:03

Cheers mate - you've been a great help in this and the other threads about setting up this cafe.

I'm thinking a simple router, switch, master pc (for the cafe management software), 10 clients and network printer setup is the way to go.