Small Office Network Security

doopydug · 25 Jun 2008 at 15:54

Wonder if you experts have any suggestions for me. About to set up a server/3 client network within the office running SBS2003 and Exchange. Clients will be on XP Pro.

Currently we use Zonealarm for security which has seen us through up till now - will this be good enough for the new network?

I have been told by a few people that I need to get a "proper" solution without actually being told what that is.

Main concerns are anti-spam, anti-virus both in email and web browsing/downloading.

TIA

Rob7865 · 25 Jun 2008 at 16:07

Hi there

Which version of SBS are you installing? If it's the Prem version, then this includes ISA 2004, which is a very good firewall / Proxy server.

Even if it's just SBS 2003 Standard, running with a 2 NIC setup and a reasonable Router / Hardware firewall you'll be pretty secure.

Remember only open the ports you REALLY needs (for SBS, only really need, 25 - SMTP, 443 - HTTPS(remote webworkplace), and 1723 - PPTP VPN)

You wont need zone alarm on the clients (don't think you can run the free version in a commercial environment). SBS 2003 Prem, you can install the ISA firewall client on the PC's or just run with the standard Windows Firewall enabled (default with SBS Group Policy).

For your Anti Virus / Spam needs - look at Trend CSM 5.0 http://uk.trendmicro.com/uk/products/sb/worry-free-business-security/index.html

Hope that makes sence?
ttfn
Rob

doopydug · 25 Jun 2008 at 16:09

It is Prem I am running certainly - didn't realise it came with such good security.

Rob7865 · 25 Jun 2008 at 16:16

My best advice to you if you have never installed SBS 2003, is to set up a test rig. Install, Document, then clean down and install again.
If done right SBS is a great bit of kit, but if done wrongly can cause you a great headache sorting it out!!!

Also, don't be put off about using the Wizards - the Wizards are your friend! I am an MSCE 2003, have worked both Enterprise IT and SME. So I can tell you that SBS wizards save's a great deal of time, and sets the things you may just forget!

Good luck

Rob