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Contents
Introduction *
Key Trends *
Small Business Server Adoption *
Increasing Volumes of Data *
Rising Demand for Wireless, High-Speed Connectivity *
Do-it-Yourself Focus and the Changing Role of the Technology Provider *
Design Goals for Windows Small Business Server 2003 *
Design Goal 1: Provide Small-Business Customers With Connectivity for Collaboration, Communication and Mobility *
Design Goal 2: Provide Flexible Deployment Features to Support Both Small-Business Customers and Technology Providers *
Design Goal 3: Provide Simplicity in Installation, Management and Use *
Features of Windows Small Business Server 2003 *
E-Mail, Networking and Internet Connectivity *
Small-Business Intranet With Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services v2 *
Remote Access *
Mobility *
Server Administration and Management *
Setting Up Client Computers and Adding Users *
Monitoring and Reporting *
Backup and Restore *
Setup *
Setting Up Windows Small Business Server 2003 *
New OEM Preinstall *
To Do List *
Configure E-Mail and Internet Connection Wizard *
Adding Users and Computers *
Adding Client Computers *
Monitoring and Reporting *
Server Management Console *
Technical Feature Comparison Chart *
System Requirements *
Introduction
Welcome to the Microsoft® Windows® Small Business Server 2003 reviewers guide. This guide describes the key capabilities and features of Small
Business Server and how these features benefit the two main audiences for the product, small businesses and the technology providers who deliver IT services to small businesses. To
help ensure that you have all the information you need to review Small Business Server 2003, this guide provides information on the following:
Significant trends in the small-business technology industry
Key design goals for Small Business Server 2003
Small Business Server 2003 features at a glance
A guided walk-through of Small Business Server 2003
In October 1997, Microsoft Corp. introduced BackOffice® Small Business Server 4.0. This was the world’s first integrated suite of server applications designed
specifically for small businesses. Small Business Server 4.0 allowed small businesses to license a single product to address their networking, communications and Internet needs at
a price that represented a tremendous value.
After two subsequent releases, the product increasingly has delivered that value, with return on investment (ROI) for small-business customers ranging from 57 percent to
268 percent, according to a study by Forbes.com. Users also recouped their investment in one accounting period or less, expanded their geographic reach, performed more
revenue-producing tasks at no extra cost, and improved their quality of life through the ability to conduct business from wherever they happened to be.
With the vision of extending the return on investment to even more small-business customers, Microsoft actively worked to further break down the barriers to adoption, such as
product complexity. The company visited hundreds of small businesses to learn how to enhance the usability of the product and conducted thousands of customer and partner interviews
to understand how to maximize the value that Small Business Server provides to small businesses. Microsoft’s continued product development has been completely driven by this
customer and partner feedback.
The result is Windows Small Business Server 2003, the fourth-generation release. It was designed to incorporate the highly dependable and manageable Microsoft Windows Server™
2003 operating system as its core engine, as well as the robust and feature-rich messaging system, Microsoft Exchange Server 2003. As part of the Windows Server 2003 family,
Windows Small Business Server 2003 delivers the familiar look of the Windows operating system that consumers already know. When small-business users look for the Windows Server
product that is right for them, the clearly branded Windows Small Business Server 2003 will be the obvious — and most optimal — choice. Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides
first-class technology in an integrated solution tailored to meet the needs of small businesses — whether it’s the only server or the center of a multiserver network — delivering
great value to solve the problems that small businesses face every day.
A key benefit of Windows Small Business Server 2003 is that it offers the ability to integrate and tailor the powerful features of several core Windows Server System™ components
to deliver the tremendous ease of use especially needed by small businesses. Thus, Windows Small Business Server 2003 delivers a new level of simplicity during the entire life
cycle of product use, including setup, management and use.
With this new level of simplicity, the value of server technology can be reaped by nearly anyone. To better meet the variation in a larger population of small businesses,
Windows Small Business Server 2003 is now available in two editions, Standard and Premium:
Windows Small Business Server 2003 Standard Edition is a new version of Windows Small Business Server consisting of Windows Server 2003 and Exchange Server
2003 technology. Standard Edition is ideal for customers that do not require the higher-level functionality provided by the Premium Edition.
Windows Small Business Server 2003 Premium Edition also includes Windows Server 2003 and Exchange Server 2003 technology, and adds Microsoft SQL Server™
2000 and Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server. Premium Edition is ideal for small businesses with more demanding IT needs, such as data-intensive
line-of-business applications. The following chart provides an overview of the two editions and their included technologies.
| Feature |
Windows Small Business Server 2003 Standard Edition |
Windows Small Business Server 2003 Premium Edition |
| Tools and technologies to help share, manage, secure and back up files on an internal network |
Using Windows Server 2003 technologies |
| Rich team communications and collaboration environment |
Using Windows SharePoint™ Services v2 |
| Communication and collaboration infrastructure that helps increase productivity |
Using Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 technology |
A unified place to manage
e-mail, calendars, contacts and other personal and team information |
Using Microsoft Office Outlook® 2003 |
| Help secure Internet connections |
Using Routing and Remote Access Services (RRAS) |
Using ISA Server 2000 technology |
| Relational database supporting line-of-business applications |
|
Using Microsoft SQL Server 2000 |
| Tools for sophisticated Web site development or the creation of customized solutions for Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services
v2 |
|
Using Microsoft Office FrontPage® 2003 |
Key Trends
Four major industry trends serve as the backdrop for the design and development of Windows Small Business Server 2003.
Small Business Server Adoption
Rapid technology adoption by small business is a continuing trend with some new twists. While PC growth in small businesses will continue over the next few years — IDC
projects that small-business PC adoptions will climb by almost 8 percent per year between 2001 and 2006 — small businesses will deploy servers even more quickly than they will PCs.
IDC projects server growth at almost 10 percent per year through 2006. Within the small-business sector, the deployment of server-based local area networks (LANs) will climb the
fastest for the smallest companies. Those with fewer than five employees will see annual server-based LAN growth of 11.7 percent through 2006, while all small businesses with fewer
than 99 employees will see annual server-based LAN growth of 8.6 percent.
Several factors are fueling this growth. First, PC penetration in small businesses is high; small-business owners are now looking to increase the benefit and ROI they get from
the PCs they already own. Linking them in server-based LANs is a key way to boost collaboration and productivity. Second, small businesses made their last major technology push in
preparation for potential year 2000 issues. As technology continues to advance, those investments are now nearing the end of their useful lives and companies are looking to
upgrade.
Third, the price of server hardware has plummeted — server prices are as low as 20 percent below what they cost a few years ago — and they’ve become simpler to use. According to
D.H. Brown analyst Tony Iams, small businesses still operating on servers based on Windows NT® Server 4.0, for example, should seriously consider upgrading to Windows
Server 2003 because of the persuasive benefits. Iams calls Windows Server 2003 "a platform that’s much easier and more cost-effective to operate today — a key benefit in smaller
organizations that lack sizable IT staffs — but that’s also guaranteed to grow to meet expanding needs over time."
Increasing Volumes of Data
One of the trends fueling small businesses to adopt servers is the explosive increase in the volume of data these organizations are now handling in digital form. This trend
extends to data in e-mail, applications and documents. Previously, small businesses would have handled much of this data on paper. The move to electronic media necessitates server
software and hardware to archive, access, affect and share this increasingly mission-critical information.
Not surprisingly, data backup and recovery is the most important future IT focus area for small businesses. According to industry observer Access Markets International Partners
Inc., 43 percent of small businesses rank data backup and recovery as important to their businesses, making it the leading concern among small businesses. Small businesses are also
conscious of the need to secure the information they’re managing electronically; 30 percent cite data security as a future focus, making it the second-highest-ranked concern of
small businesses.
Rising Demand for Wireless, High-Speed Connectivity
With small businesses putting more of their data online and linking more of their PCs to boost collaboration and productivity, it is natural that these users would also want
anytime, anywhere access to their data and applications so they can continue to work from home or while on the road. Indeed, a growing number of small-business owners and employees
work mostly away from an office — and some have no office at all. The ability of technology providers to address the data security concerns of small businesses will further
facilitate small-business adoption of wireless, mobile devices.
Accordingly, IDC projects that small businesses will increase their purchases of smart handheld devices by 18 percent per year through 2006 — more than twice the growth rate of
their continued acquisition of PCs, making it the fastest-growing category of small-business technology adoption.
As broadband service becomes increasingly available and less expensive, it also will become more attractive to small businesses that can take benefit from the technology to
further leverage the increasing amount of data they store and use online. IDC expects the number of small businesses using broadband technologies to climb by 19.3 percent each year
through 2006, making it the fastest-growing technology segment that IDC tracks in the small-business sector. By 2005, the portion of small businesses with broadband access is
expected to swell to 28.9 percent, up from 17.3 percent in 2001.
Do-it-Yourself Focus and the Changing Role of the Technology Provider
Although small businesses that adopt server technology are reaping significant benefits and ROI, many small businesses are deterred from server deployment by the perceived
or actual costs of maintenance and support. Unlike their larger counterparts, small businesses are much less likely to have dedicated IT staffs and more likely to assign the IT
function to a technology enthusiast whose formal responsibility lies elsewhere.
Most small businesses acquire their technology solutions through technology providers — but the role of those providers is changing. The trend for small businesses to operate
without dedicated IT staffs, along with the growing recognition by these companies that they must adopt server technology to maintain competitive advantage, is creating both new
opportunities and new challenges for technology providers.
With technology prices falling and more technology providers serving the small-business market, there is increasing revenue pressure on technology providers to find more
strategic ways to add value to the small-business technology purchase. In addition to differentiating their solutions, technology providers are looking for better and more
cost-effective ways to provide service and support to more customers. By decreasing the cost of that support to customers and gaining revenue from a broader customer base,
technology providers can achieve a win-win for their cost-conscious customers, and for themselves.
Design Goals for Windows Small Business Server 2003
Microsoft understands that its small-business customers need collaboration components that make it possible to connect people to information and to each other, as well as
to access their data and applications from wherever they may be. Technology providers in the small-business space need new and innovative ways to add value to the deployments they
provide to their customers. And small businesses adopting "big company" technology without taking on the overhead of "big company" IT staffs need solutions that are easier to
install, manage and use.
Microsoft took all these needs into consideration when designing Windows Small Business Server 2003. The software has been completely redesigned to incorporate the Windows
Server 2003 operating system. What is more, Windows Small Business Server 2003 offers compelling benefits to small businesses that may be new to networking and concerned about
their return on investment in new technology, as well as small businesses that may be upgrading an environment that already includes one or more servers.
Design Goal 1: Provide Small-Business Customers With Connectivity for Collaboration, Communication and Mobility
Superb messaging solution. Windows Small Business Server 2003 incorporates Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 for a superb messaging solution for Internet and intranet
e-mail. Further, the integration of Exchange Server 2003 and Microsoft Outlook 2003 delivers a variety of improvements including cached-mode synchronization; remote Web
access to e-mail, scheduling and contacts through Outlook Web Access; and support for remote procedure calls (RPCs) over HTTP, which allows users to connect directly to
their Exchange server over the Internet without needing to establish a virtual private network (VPN) tunnel. Users running Outlook 2003 can connect directly to an Exchange
server within a corporate environment over the Internet.
Cached Exchange Mode and synchronization improvements allow users to read e-mail or perform other messaging tasks in low-bandwidth networks and in situations where
network connectivity is lost. Request for information notifications from the Exchange server are eliminated on the Outlook client, thereby allowing users to work without
interruption in low-bandwidth, high-latency networks. Another benefit of these improvements is that users work primarily from their local Exchange mailbox data file. If
network connectivity is lost between the Outlook client and the network, Outlook 2003 will operate without interruption.
Remote Web Workplace. Through the new Remote Web Workplace, users gain a dynamically created Web site that provides a single, consolidated entry point for
authorized remote users anywhere in the world, using any device that can access the Internet. Users can connect to the Remote Web Workplace through an Internet address and
take advantage of the remote access features of Windows Small Business Server, including Outlook Web Access and their own desktop. In addition to remotely accessing the
desktop of their office computer, users can download Connection Manager, which automates the process of remotely connecting a client computer to the company network.
The new version of Outlook Web Access in Exchange Server 2003 represents a significant upgrade from Outlook Web Access in Exchange 2000. The new version is a
full-featured e-mail client, with support for rules, spelling checker, signed and encrypted e-mail, and many other improvements. The interface also was redesigned to provide
an enhanced user experience similar to that of Outlook 2003, including a new Reading Pane (previously called the Preview Pane in Outlook) and improved navigation pane.
Many small-business users want an intranet solution that seamlessly connects users, teams and knowledge so that people can leverage relevant information across business
processes to help them work and collaborate more efficiently. The Remote Web Workplace in Windows Small Business Server 2003 includes a fully preconfigured intranet solution
using Windows SharePoint Services v2 (WSS). Users can access the intranet as well as an Incoming Faxes document library.
Design Goal 2: Provide Flexible Deployment Features to Support Both Small-Business Customers and Technology Providers
Server setup. Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and system builders with the ability to preinstall the entire
product — in a streamlined fashion — on multiple computers. OEM customers and channel partners, therefore, have a simpler and faster way to get their customers up and
running on Windows Small Business Server.
OEMs can now preinstall the full product before completing the imaging or disk duplication process. When users receive their server, all that remains is for them to enter
the requested information during Setup and then complete the To Do list. The result is that users can have a fully working solution after just 30 minutes with the product.
Because many users will be migrating to Windows Small Business Server 2003 from a previous version of Small Business Server or Windows Server, the product includes tools to
help users move data from their previous environments.
Remote management. Remote management tools are important, whether technology providers are supporting their customers remotely or a small-business user is
supporting a branch office or home user remotely. Windows Small Business Server 2003 includes a range of remote management tools, including a help desk built on Windows
SharePoint Services v2. It enables the user to submit help desk tickets for noncritical issues. Windows Small Business Server 2003 also includes tools to monitor server
activity and receive performance and usage reports in e-mail or online.
Beyond remote monitoring, users or technology providers can actually manage client computers and servers remotely via Terminal Services and via the Remote Desktop, a new
feature in Windows XP Professional. Terminal Services enables users or technology providers to remotely manage Windows Small Business Server 2003 from any computer — even
one outside the Windows Small Business Server 2003 network or one located on the Internet.
Second Windows Server for additional workloads. Small-business users can choose to have additional servers running Windows Server 2003 and manage them remotely
using Terminal Services or the Remote Desktop. Small businesses can deploy and manage a second server for intensive business applications or for local file and print
functions in a second office.
By enabling technology providers and users to monitor and manage client and server sites from remote locations, the new tools and technologies in Windows Small Business
Server 2003 help reduce the travel time and cost involved in providing maintenance. They also help business owners learn what is happening with their businesses and how
their employees are working — even when they are away from the office.
PC client setup. With Windows Small Business Server 2003, small-business users and technology providers can automatically add new clients, deploy applications and
centralize system settings. Windows Small Business Server 2003 includes integrated wizards that make these tasks faster and easier. Users or technology providers can create
user and computer accounts, deploy software, and configure settings for an entire group of computers at once, rather than working on one computer at a time. The Add User
Wizard is one new tool that enables this capability. It creates the user account in Active Directory®, creates a mailbox in Exchange, grants access to network
resources such as the intranet, shared files and printers, and creates a home folder on the server to store personal files. This wizard can be combined with the Set Up
Computer Wizard to configure a client computer for new users.
Design Goal 3: Provide Simplicity in Installation, Management and Use
Easy installation. The full-featured connectivity and collaboration solution in Windows Small Business Server 2003 is much easier to install and configure, thanks to
the Configure E-Mail and Internet Connection Wizard. Using this one wizard, users can more easily configure settings for the network, firewall, secure Web sites and e-mail
to connect computers running Windows Small Business Server 2003 to the Internet.
Once the server software installation is complete, Windows Small Business Server 2003 boots to a To Do List, which walks the user through the process of getting the complete
network up and running, including adding users and client machines and setting up the Internet connection.
The Remote Access Wizard is a new feature in Windows Small Business Server 2003 that allows remote access via both virtual private network or dial-in access through a modem.
The wizard automatically configures remote access features that were configured manually in earlier versions of Small Business Server. It creates a configuration package
that can be deployed to client computers with the necessary connection information already configured, and it can install automatically even on mobile client computers.
As mentioned previously, the Add User Wizard provides an integrated way to add new user accounts. It can be started in bulk mode, enabling the user or technology provider to
add multiple user accounts with one instance of the wizard.
Easy management. A variety of features in Windows Small Business Server 2003 make it easier to manage. For example, the Remote Web Workplace is more than a
location where users can gain remote access features. It also provides a central location for administrators to access management features, such as the Remote Desktop to
access servers and client computers, Windows SharePoint Services v2 to administer the internal Web site, Help Desk to view requests generated by users, and performance and
usage reports.
Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides two preconfigured management consoles to further simplify management tasks. The Server Management console contains a rich set of
management tools for network management tasks, such as working with user accounts, printers, fax machines, files, shared folders, licensing, networking, e-mail monitoring,
intranet updates and backups. The second console, Server Management for Power Users, enables the technology provider or administrator to delegate basic tasks to on-site
power users. Most commonly, power users are assigned tasks such as adding a user or group account or viewing resource properties. The two consoles are organized based on the
tasks that need to be performed, rather than on the technology subsystem, making them more intuitive for typical small-business users to navigate.
The Monitoring Configuration Wizard — one of the tools that facilitate remote management — sets up alert notifications and server performance and usage reports. It also
configures application logging. Users can choose to receive performance and usage statistics reports on a scheduled basis and to receive immediate alerts when an issue
arises on the server. Users can access the usage statistics reports on a secure Web page on their intranet.
These performance reports provide information about the general health of the server and can replace much of the "simple" monitoring that was performed using earlier
versions of Small Business Server. Usage reports for business owners contain information to help owners understand how their networks are being used. These reports provide
detailed information about employee Internet, e-mail and fax use, as well as details on remote connectivity. Because performance reports are clearly formatted, it’s much
easier to note potential issues that require action.
In direct response to customer and technology provider feedback, Microsoft created an integrated backup and restore solution for Windows Small Business Server 2003. The
solution helps customers back up their servers more easily and guides them through the restore process. The Windows Small Business Server 2003 Backup Wizard guides an
inexperienced administrator through the creation and implementation of a successful backup strategy. By default, it will back up all of the system, application and data
files needed to completely restore the server — potentially including file shares, My Documents folders redirected from client computers, and files stored in the company’s
SharePoint site.
Easy usage. The new intranet site made possible by Windows SharePoint Services v2 provides a major advance in ease of use and collaboration. SharePoint-based sites
can be extended to customers and partners, augmenting the reach and efficiency of existing collaboration methods. Information workers now have a central location in which to
collaborate and share documents, empowering them to work collectively between geographies and across organizational boundaries. For example, users can post documents into
shared document libraries, view the company’s vacation calendar, enter a request to the Help Desk and participate in a survey or discussion group. Users get shared document
libraries that can be used out of the box by most small businesses for presentations and other needs; shared lists for information such as announcements, events, links and
vacation calendar; fax routing to route received faxes into the Incoming Faxes document library; and sample and prepopulated content, including sample lists and libraries
that describe how users can use the features and tailor them to their needs.
New features in Outlook 2003 and Exchange 2003 further simplify e-mail use while providing added functionality. For example, users can search for specific content in their
mailbox, such as all messages from a particular sender, and then save the search results as a Search Folder for later use. Search Folders appear in a special section of the
Outlook Folder List.
Features of Windows Small Business Server 2003
Microsoft built Windows Small Business Server 2003 with considerable input from small-business technology providers and customers about what they envisioned
in a small-business server operating environment. This section provides an overview of key features in Windows Small Business Server 2003. It also includes
information about how the features differ from similar features in earlier versions of Small Business Server.
E-Mail, Networking and Internet Connectivity
Internet access is a must for small businesses in today’s marketplace. Windows Small Business Server 2003 has everything a business needs to take advantage
of Internet connectivity. The out-of-the-box tools provide a manageable solution for shared access to the Internet, a firewall to help protect local networks,
Internet e-mail based on Exchange Server, and access to Web sites such as Outlook Web Access and the Remote Web Workplace on the server.
Small-Business Intranet With Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services v2
Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides a preconfigured internal Web site based on Windows SharePoint Services v2. Using this intranet site, co-workers can
share information in a collaborative environment. This site includes shared document libraries, announcements, events and links.
Remote Access
To accommodate an increasingly mobile work force, Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides the new Remote Web Workplace, which enables remote users to access
e-mail and remote desktops, and allows administrators to manage the server remotely. Windows Small Business Server 2003 also includes VPN capabilities that are
simpler to set up and use through the Remote Access Wizard.
Mobility
Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides a compelling mobile user solution that enables users to access e-mail, schedule, calendar and task information using
their cell phones and other portable devices while away from the office. This feature is built on the Exchange Server 2003 Outlook Mobile Access feature. Windows
Small Business Server 2003 simplifies the setup and configuration of the portable devices.
Server Administration and Management
Windows Small Business Server 2003 includes updated, end-to-end network administration features to help ensure that the network runs efficiently. Wizards simplify
common or repetitive tasks, and preconfigured management consoles provide the necessary tools to manage the network.
Adding Users and Setting Up Computers
Windows Small Business Server 2003 includes updated Client Setup features that enable administrators to create user accounts and set up client computers quickly
and efficiently. New features include client networking configuration using a Web site instead of a floppy disk, user templates, the ability to preconfigure client
applications, integrated wizards, and enhanced mobile and remote-use tools. These new features make it easier to deploy, configure and administer user and computer
accounts.
In previous versions of Small Business Server, only one user account could be added at a time. In Windows Small Business Server 2003, administrators can add
multiple user accounts based on the same user template with the help of the Add User Wizard.
Monitoring and Reporting
Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides enhanced tools that enable technology consultants and business owners to monitor server activity and receive
performance and usage reports in e-mail or online. The monitoring and reporting tools can be used to ensure that the server remains healthy and can help reduce
downtime by enabling administrators to respond quickly when issues arise. These tools help increase business productivity and customer satisfaction.
Backup and Restore
Windows Small Business Server 2003 offers an integrated backup solution to help technology providers and inexperienced administrators develop their backup
strategy, prepare complete backups, and restore the entire Windows Small Business Server and all of the data that was backed up. This backup solution also provides a
reminder for the on-site tape changer and reports the success or failure of each backup operation via e-mail.
Setup
The improved Windows Small Business Server 2003 Setup experience provides an end-to-end solution, new tools to improve productivity and the ability for OEMs to
fully preinstall Windows Small Business Server 2003.
E-Mail, Networking and Internet Connectivity
Out-of-the-Box E-Mail and Secure Internet Connectivity
Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides a robust e-mail solution using Exchange Server 2003. In addition, with one wizard, users can more easily configure
settings for their network, firewall, secure Web sites and e-mail to properly connect the computer running Windows Small Business Server to the Internet. This helps
ensure that connectivity and security are properly set up, right from the start.
E-Mail, Networking and Internet Connectivity
Description |
The Configure E-Mail and Internet Connection Wizard enables users to more easily configure
the Windows Small Business Server network to connect to the Internet. This wizard provides the following:
·1 Support for using dial-up and broadband Internet
connections — including Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE) connections and external router devices
·2 Automatic configuration of networking services, such
as Domain Name System (DNS), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) and Wireless Integrated Network Sensors (WINS)
·3 Easier configuration of firewall services on the
server
·4 Support for configuring a server’s Web site so that
Internet users can access Outlook Web Access, Remote Web Workplace and the company’s internal Web site
·5 Support for configuring secure sockets layer (SSL)
to help protect connections between Web browsers and a user’s Web site
·6 Easier configuration of Exchange Server for Internet
e-mail
·7 Support for configuring a server to a "known good"
state when trying to troubleshoot network issues
Configure E-Mail and Internet Connection Wizard script. Each time the wizard runs, a Visual Basic® script is generated. Businesses can use this script
(config.vbs) with its current settings to restore the configuration of the computer from which the script was generated, or they can customize this script and use it to
configure another computer running Windows Small Business Server 2003.
Microsoft Connector for POP3 mailboxes. Users can migrate their existing POP3 mailbox accounts to use Exchange. Using the connector, they can regularly download
e-mail from existing POP3 accounts and have the e-mail delivered to the recipient’s Inbox in Microsoft Office Outlook 2003, creating an integrated e-mail experience. |
| How It’s Enhanced |
The Configure E-Mail and Internet Connection Wizard provides several new security
enhancements:
·1 Support for SSL to configure Web sites
·2 Support for filtering file attachments from
incoming e-mail messages
·3 New scripting capabilities. Users can now
configure a computer running Windows Small Business Server 2003 to connect to the Internet by using a script file to replicate networking
configuration across multiple Windows Small Business Server 2003 sites.
·4 Support for PPPoE Internet connections
Configure E-Mail and Internet Connection Wizard script. This is a new feature for Windows Small Business Server 2003.
Microsoft Connector for POP3 mailboxes. This feature provides the following enhancements:
·1 Support for Secure Password Authentication
·2 Improved reliability through a complete
redesign
|
Internet E-Mail Using Exchange Server
| Description |
Exchange Server 2003 provides a messaging solution for Internet and intranet e-mail. Exchange
also integrates with Microsoft Office Outlook 2003 for scheduling meetings or having online conferences. In addition, Exchange Server provides users with remote Web access
to e-mail, scheduling and contacts through Outlook Web Access. |
| How It’s Enhanced |
·1 Rich, Internet-enabled e-mail. When using Outlook 2003 with
Exchange Server 2003, users can access new features:
-1 Search Folders
are virtual folders that find content based on set criteria across multiple physical folders. For
example, one of the default search folders is Large Messages. When users click on this search folder, all large messages in their mailbox are displayed.
Users can create new search folders to find messages based on custom options.
-2 Cached mode is a combination of online and
offline modes and is the default mode in Outlook 2003. When a user starts a client computer, Outlook 2003 registers its presence with Exchange Server
and receives new e-mail notifications. However, instead of reading all folder data directly from the server, the mailbox folders are downloaded into a
cache on the local computer. The advantage is that when the user attempts to reopen the message, or if server connectivity is lost, the message can be
opened locally without any server interaction.
-3 Smart Change Synchronization by Outlook 2003
is done on a per-item basis, which means that if changes occur to a message object or any part of the headers, the item has to be resynchronized. This
has an unfortunate side effect when messages are flagged for follow-up or when a message is replied to or forwarded (and the icon indicator changes in
the Inbox view). For example, if a mobile user synchronizes a large message to a local Offline Folder Storage (OST) file and then replies to it, the
large message has to be resynchronized with the server even though only a portion of the header was changed. Outlook 2003 treats reply/forward
header information and message flags as special attributes. When these change, a synchronization of the entire object does not recur.
·1 Outlook Web Access offers a redesigned user
interface, attachment blocking, content filtering, address book enhancements (including Global Address List property sheets), session inactivity timeout, and
the ability to create and read messages with digital signatures and encryption.
·2 RPCs over HTTP. Exchange Server 2003 and Outlook 2003
combined with Windows Server now support RPCs over HTTP. This enables Outlook 2003 to securely connect across the Internet to RPC server programs and execute
remote procedure calls. If the client computer can make an HTTP connection to a computer on a remote network running Internet Information Services (IIS), it
can connect to any available server on the remote network and execute remote procedure calls. The RPC client and server programs can connect across the
Internet — even if both are behind firewalls on different networks.
·1 Multiple public folder trees. Exchange supports
multiple public folder trees, giving users greater flexibility when deploying collaborative applications. Users can now group collaboration databases by
function, business or geography. For example, one public folder tree could hold all applications for the human resources department, another for accounting,
and a third for research and development. This provides users with better administration, replication and organization of data.
|
Small-Business Intranet With Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services v2
Improved Productivity Through Knowledge Sharing and Team Collaboration
Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides an internal Web site, or intranet, based on Windows SharePoint Services v2. This site provides a centralized
location where users can collaborate and share documents in a rich environment. For example, users can post documents into shared document libraries, view the
company’s vacation calendar, enter a request to the Help Desk and participate in a survey or discussion group.
The Internal Web Site
| Description |
· Shared document libraries
provide a set of predefined document libraries that can be used out of the box by most small businesses.
Included in this default list are general documents, projects, presentations and archived documents. If these sample libraries do not meet a particular
customer’s needs, new document libraries can be created.
· Shared lists
provides a set of lists within Windows SharePoint Services v2 that knowledge workers can use to share
information. By default, these lists include announcements, events, links, a vacation calendar and a Help Desk.
· Sample and prepopulated content
includes not only a number of sample lists and libraries, but also sample content populated into each of
these libraries. This sample content describes how users can use the features and tailor them to their needs.
· Shared picture libraries
provide a rich graphical interface to share images among the team. These image libraries provide previewing
and viewing capabilities.
· Alerts
enable users to subscribe to content stored in lists or document libraries, which will provide e-mail
notification if content changes or new files are added.
· Fax routing
enables users to route received faxes into the Incoming Faxes document library.
· Import Files to SharePoint
makes the transition of these documents into the company intranet easier by including an Import Files
Wizard, which copies content from the file system into document libraries, where all the features of Windows SharePoint Services v2 can be leveraged.
· End user Help topics include a Web-based set of Help
topics designed to provide assistance with the most relevant tasks in the Windows Small Business Server 2003 environment.
|
| How It’s Enhanced |
A company’s internal Web site is a new feature in Windows Small Business Server 2003. |
Remote Access
Out-of-the-Box Remote Access Solution
The Remote Web Workplace is a dynamically created Web site that provides a single, consolidated entry point for remote users to access Windows Small Business
Server features. It empowers external users by providing one place from which Windows Small Business Server features, Outlook Web Access and the user’s desktop can be
accessed from outside the network firewall.
Administrators also can configure computers running Windows Small Business Server to allow authorized users to connect to the network and use resources as if
connected locally. The Remote Access Wizard configures the server for VPN and dial-in access.
Remote Access
| Description |
§1 The Remote Web Workplace enables designated users to access the
following Windows Small Business Server features from any location, using an Internet-enabled computer:
§2 Outlook Web Access. Users can access an Internet
version of Microsoft Office Outlook 2003.
§3 Windows SharePoint Services v2. Users can access
their company’s internal Web site.
§4 Remote Desktop. Users can access the desktop of
their computer at work, using the Internet.
§5 Connection Manager. Users can download Connection
Manager, which automates the process of remotely connecting a computer to the company network.
§6 Administrator access. The Remote Web Workplace
enables administrators to access additional features:
-1 Remote Desktop. Access to the desktops of servers
and client computers on the company network
-2 SharePoint Team Services. Administer the company’s
internal Web site
-3 Help Desk. View a list of Help Desk requests
generated by network users
-4 Monitoring Reports. View the performance and usage
reports for the company network
·1 The Remote Access Wizard configures the server to
allow remote access via both VPN or dial-in access through a modem. It configures the Routing and Remote Access service for remote access and configures the
necessary settings for the firewall on the Windows Small Business Server. In addition, the wizard creates a configuration package that can be deployed to
client computers with the necessary connection information already configured. The Set Up Computer Wizard can automatically install this on mobile client
computers.
|
| How It’s Enhanced |
·1 The Remote Web Workplace is a new feature for Windows
Small Business Server 2003, providing a single location where users can access remote access features.
·2 The Remote Access Wizard is a new feature for
Windows Small Business Server 2003. The wizard automatically configures remote access features that were manually configured in earlier versions of
Small Business Server.
|
Mobility
Compelling Out-of-the-Box Remote Access Solution Using Portable Devices
Users of portable devices can access their e-mail, calendar and task information, from their Windows Small Business Server 2003 network, over the Internet.
Windows Small Business Server’s mobility solution simplifies the setup and provisioning of devices running Windows MobileTM 2003 software.
Mobility
| Description |
·1 Users of Windows Small Business Server 2003 can more easily
configure their portable devices to access e-mail, schedule and task information.
|
| How It’s Enhanced |
·2 Mobility is a new feature in Windows Small Business
Server 2003 that provides an easier way for technology professionals to support their customers’ mobile devices. The Windows Small Business Server 2003
mobility feature is built upon the Exchange Server 2003 Outlook Mobile Access feature.
|
Server Administration and Management
Increased Flexibility and System Reliability at a Lower Cost
Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides two preconfigured management consoles. The first, Server Management, contains a rich set of management tools for
network management. The second, Server Management for Power Users, enables administrators to delegate basic tasks to on-site power users. Most commonly, power users
are assigned tasks such as adding a user or group account or viewing resource properties.
Management Tools
| Description |
Consoles
·1 Server Management is used to configure and manage the
server and the network. It contains the tools used to work with user accounts, printers, fax machines, files, shared folders, licensing, networking, e-mail,
monitoring, an intranet and backups. This console also contains advanced tools for working with Exchange, IIS and the Active Directory service.
·2 Server Management for Power Users includes a subset of
Server Management tools. This console includes the most common management tools for handling user accounts, group accounts, computers, printers and shared folders.
·3 Console Customization enables administrators to grant or
deny specific tasks to power users. Server Management for Power Users can be customized and tools can be added or removed to meet business needs. For example, if a
company uses a line-of-business application, its administrator can add the management snap-in provided by this application to the console so that power users also
can perform management tasks involving this application. Similarly, if administrators do not want power users to manage the fax machines, they can remove the fax
server snap-in from the console.
Remote Access
·1 Terminal Services provides remote computers with
access to Windows-based programs running on the server. As deployed in Windows Small Business Server 2003, Terminal Services enables administrators to
remotely manage the server from any computer, even one outside the Windows Small Business Server 2003 network. Administrators can access the server via
Terminal Services from any computer on the Internet.
·2 Remote Desktop Web Connection is a Web application,
based on an ActiveX® control, which enables users to create a Terminal Services connection within Microsoft Internet Explorer, even if a Terminal
Services client program is not installed on the user’s computer.
·3 Remote management of client computers is possible
because of the Remote Desktop, a new feature of Microsoft Windows XP Professional. This feature is based on the same technology used in Terminal Services. It
enables users to manage client computers remotely, saving trips to the site. If a small business has additional servers running Windows Server 2003, these
also can be managed remotely.
User Accounts
·1 The Change User Permissions Wizard
provides the ability to change a single user’s or multiple users’ access rights and file permissions.
·2 Enable Password Policies increases the security of
the network by enforcing strong password policies.
|
| How It’s Enhanced |
·1 Server Management was primarily a technology-oriented
console in Windows Small Business Server 2000, whereas the new console is more task-oriented. New tools to manage backups, an intranet and additional
servers are also now available.
·2 The Remote Desktop Web Connection feature was
only available from the local network. With Windows Small Business Server 2003, users can access this feature from any computer connected to the
Internet.
·3 Remote Management of Client Computers Running
Windows XP Professional is a new feature in Windows Small Business Server 2003 and is only available for computers running Windows XP Professional
and Windows Server 2003.
|
Setting Up Client Computers and Adding Users
Increasingly Flexible and Faster Client Computer Deployment
Windows Small Business Server 2003 includes a number of integrated wizards that make deploying applications and adding client computers to the domain faster
and easier. These tools enable administrators to create user and computer accounts, deploy software, and configure settings for an entire group of computers, rather
than creating accounts and deploying applications on one computer at a time. Because these wizards are simple to use, power users can access the administration tools.
Setting Up Client Computers
| Description |
·1 Deploy and configure client applications. The Set Up
Computer Wizard deploys the client applications included with Windows Small Business Server 2003. Users can run the Set Up Client Applications Wizard
to add other applications to the server so that they can be automatically deployed to client computers.
·2 Connect client computers. Instead of using a floppy
disk to connect client computers to the Windows Small Business Server network, users can browse to a Web site and access all the necessary tools to configure
networking settings.
·3 Configure mobile client computers. When running the
Set Up Computer Wizard, users can configure client computers for mobile use. Access to Outlook 2003 makes contact information available to users even when
they are offline. The Create a Remote Connection Disk option enables users to create a floppy disk to configure connectivity on a remote computer (such
as a user’s home computer). Alternatively, users can access the Remote Web Workplace, where they can download Connection Manager. Both options place an
icon on the client computer’s desktop that points to the server via a VPN or dial-up connection. Users simply type their username and password to connect
remotely.
·4 Advanced Configurations Option. When running the Set
Up Computer Wizard, users can deselect options, such as printer configuration or specific Internet Explorer Favorites. This gives administrators more control
over what is configured on client computers. These options are also available using View Client Computer Settings.
·5 View Client Computer Settings. Users can display the
applications and settings that were chosen for a specific client computer by clicking on View Client Computer Settings in the Manage Client
Computers taskpad in Server Management. This information is especially useful after initial deployment to ensure that the proper settings and
applications were distributed.
·6 Save configurations performed by a wizard. The
configurations performed by a wizard are saved to a file, which users can send (via e-mail) or print. This enables administrators to create a log of the
changes made to server configurations. If a problem occurs, this information can be helpful in troubleshooting the server.
|
| How It’s Enhanced |
The Set Up Computer Wizard has many improvements since Small Business Server 2000. The
wizards have been simplified, and the user interface is more intuitive. |
| Description |
Windows Small Business Server 2003 includes the Add User Wizard, providing an integrated
way to add new user accounts. This wizard creates the user account in Active Directory; creates a mailbox in Exchange; grants access to network resources, such as the
intranet, shared files and printers; and creates a home folder on the server to store personal files. This wizard can be combined with the Set Up Computer Wizard to
configure a client computer for the new user. User templates make the process of adding users faster, as common settings can be defined and reused multiple times. The Add
User Wizard can be started in bulk mode, which enables administrators to add multiple user accounts with one instance of the wizard. It also can be used by power users in
simple mode, which restricts the type of accounts that power users can add. |
| How It’s Enhanced |
The ability to add multiple users at the same time by using the Add User Wizard is new in
Windows Small Business Server 2003. |
Monitoring and Reporting
Efficient Monitoring and Reporting of Server Activity and Status
Windows Small Business Server 2003 provides tools that enable users to monitor server activity and receive performance and usage reports in e-mail or online.
The monitoring and reporting tools enable users to monitor customer sites from remote locations. Remote monitoring helps reduce travel time, which saves money for
both the technology consultant and the business owner. It also helps business owners learn what is happening with their business and how their employees are working —
even when they are away from the office.
Monitoring and Reporting
Description |
·1 The Monitoring Configuration Wizard sets up alert
notifications and server performance and usage reports. It also configures application logging. Users can choose to receive performance and usage statistics
reports on a scheduled basis and receive immediate alerts when an issue arises on the server. Business owners can view the usage statistics report on a secure
Web page on their intranet.
·2 Alerts are used to send an immediate e-mail
notification when there is a critical issue with the server. When configured, Windows Small Business Server 2003 automatically sends an alert when a service
set to start automatically is stopped or when a performance counter threshold is exceeded.
·3 Performance reports provide information about the
general health of the server and can replace much of the "simple" monitoring that was performed using earlier versions of Small Business Server. Performance
reports can be viewed on the server and can be sent to designated recipients in e-mail. The reports include Health Monitor alerts and critical event log
entries from the previous 24 hours. They also include summary information about important performance counters and the top five processes that are consuming
memory.
·4 Usage reports for business owners contain
information to help owners understand how their network is being used. These reports provide detailed information about employee Internet, e-mail and fax
usage, as well as remote connectivity. Usage data is gathered from application logs once a day, and statistics are displayed in a report. Business owners and
other authorized users can receive usage reports in e-mail or view the reports from a Web page on their intranet. The latest report also can be viewed in
Server Management.
·5 The Monitoring and Reporting Taskpad provides a
central location for viewing monitoring and usage data and lists tasks for configuring reports and alerts. The taskpad also contains links to more information
and other troubleshooting tools, such as Event Viewer, Task Manager and Service Manager.
·6 The Import/Export Health Monitor Configuration Wizard
enables users to export all Health Monitor thresholds and alerts from a computer running Windows Small Business Server 2003 and import them to another
computer running Windows Small Business Server 2003. This wizard can be used to save and install a preconfigured set of custom Health Monitor alerts quickly
on a customer’s server.
|
| How It’s Enhanced |
·1 The Monitoring Configuration Wizard, Monitoring
and Reporting Taskpad, and usage reports for business owners are new features in Windows Small Business Server 2003. These features simplify
the task of setting up, configuring and distributing monitoring reports and alerts.
·2 Windows Small Business Server 2003 delivers a
preconfigured set of Alerts and alert thresholds. Also, a user interface has been added to help fine-tune the configuration. Business owners do
not need to learn about Health Monitor to use this feature.
·3 Performance reports contain a preconfigured
list of relevant performance counters and metrics. The reports are enhanced with additional information to give a more complete picture of server
status. The reports are clearly formatted so that it is easier to note problems that require action.
|
Backup and Restore
Integrated Backup and Restore Solution to Help Ensure the Success of Backup Strategies
The Windows Small Business Server 2003 backup solution was created as a direct result of customer and technology provider feedback. This solution is
designed to help customers back up their servers more easily and successfully and to guide them through the restore process, ensuring the success of their
backup strategy.
The backup solution prompts administrators to create a backup strategy and leads them through the process of deciding what to back up, when to perform
backups and where to store the backed up information. It simplifies the task of redirecting the users’ My Documents folders to shares on the server to ensure
that client data is also backed up. By default, it backs up all of the data on the server that is needed to completely restore that server.
Windows Small Business Server 2003 allows backup to tape, another hard drive in the server or a shared folder on any computer in the network. It also
reminds the appropriate person when it is time to change the tape and notifies the designated person of the success or failure of each backup. The final part
of the backup solution is a document that completely describes the process of restoring individual files or the entire server.
Backup and Restore
Description |
·2 The Small Business Server Backup Wizard guides beginning
administrators through the creation and implementation of a successful backup strategy. By default, it will back up all the system, application and data files
needed to completely restore the server. This can include file shares, My Documents folders redirected from client computers, and files stored in the
company’s SharePoint site. In this wizard, administrators can configure the following:
·1 What files and folders to back up
·2 How often and what time to perform backups
·3 Where to store the backed up files and how many to
keep
·4 Reminders for the person responsible for changing
the backup tapes
·5 How long to keep items deleted from Exchange
·6 How much disk space to assign to the Volume Shadow
Copy service
In addition, administrators benefit from the following features:
·7 The ability to back up to tape, local hard drive or
a network share
·8 Integration of success or failure reports for
individual backups into the Windows Small Business Server 2003 Monitoring and Reporting feature
·9 Restoration of individual items from Exchange using
the Exchange deleted item retention feature
·10 Restoration of individual files and folders using
the Volume Shadow Copy service
·11 Steps to successfully restore the entire server
|
| How It’s Enhanced |
·12 The Small Business Server Backup Solution is a new
feature in Windows Small Business Server 2003 that helps administrators develop a complete backup strategy and helps ensure their ability to restore
their data or their entire server.
|
System Requirements
Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2003 Standard and Premium Editions
550MHz or faster processor clock speed recommended; 300MHz minimum; Intel Pentium/Celeron family, AMD K6/Athlon/Duron family, or compatible processor (Windows Small
Business Server 2003 Standard and Premium Editions support up to two CPUs on one server.)
CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive
Super VGA (800x600) or higher-resolution monitor recommended; VGA or hardware that supports console redirection required
Keyboard and Microsoft Mouse or compatible pointing device, or hardware that supports console redirection
Ethernet network interface card from the Windows Server 2003 Hardware Compatibility List
Standard Edition
384 MB of RAM or higher recommended (256 MB minimum: 4 GB maximum)
4 GB of available hard disk space*
Premium Edition
512 MB of RAM or higher recommended (256 MB minimum; 4 GB maximum)
5 GB of available hard disk space* (2 GB required if upgrading from Microsoft Small Business Server 2000)
* Actual requirements will vary based on system configuration and the applications and features selected for install. More information is available at http://www.microsoft.com
/sbserver/.
