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

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.

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.