July 30,2009

SBS 2008 Premium
We are currently installing and upgrading systems from SBS 2003 to SBS 2008.  This is an excellent new release of Microsoft Small Business Server.  Among its advantages are:

  • Ability to use more memory.  This means faster performance.
  • Improved security.  The new version of SBS uses an external firewall that captures viruses and spam before they enter the server.  Microsoft has also added many security features to protect the system.
  • Ability to separate "line of business" software depending on SQL to a second server.  This keeps the email and line of business servers from competing for memory.
  • Excellent system stability.

Please Note:
A company calling itself Nic Tech (note the space)  apparently distributes a spy ware product. We have no connection with this company.

We are a Seattle-based company that provides computing consultation services to small businesses - primarily those having 20 users or less. We have no developers and only provide legitimate software to our customers in the Seattle area.

In our "Support" section check out the security FAQ for home computer users that shares the tools we use to help ward off unwanted home computer intrusions.

Infrastructure:


Components of a Small Business Computing Infrastructure
To support your business we create a powerful electronic business infrastructure. Its components include: a network, e-mail, office management software, line of business  software, data security and hardware. All of these components must work together to support your company's goals.

Networks
Networks provide communication and data management both inside the office and outside through the Internet. The Server provides central data storage and protection. Files and devices such as printers and scanners can be shared by anyone who has approved access to the network.

E-mail
E-mail provides rapid internal communication with employees and external communication with customers. E-mail, sent to your company's address helps establish your company's identity with its customers.

Office Management Software
Office management software supports your day-to-day operations. Key office management software includes word processing, appointment management, company-wide address books, spreadsheets and task management software to track “to-dos.”

Business Management Software
Business management software supports accounting and business-specific functions for your business. Examples of business management software include: estimating software and computer-based fax management. We review with you the flow of your work and recommend tools that will enhance your effectiveness and efficiency.

Data Security Tools
Data security tools prevent loss of valuable data. A partial list includes: backup software, a comprehensive backup strategy, redundant backup systems (several ways of retrieving data), battery backups to prevent power surges, anti-virus software, spyware prevention software and Internet intrusion protection.

Hardware
The hardware you use insures the quality and stability of your installation.  We provide high quality servers and workstations that are designed for business use.

On an ongoing basis we will look for ways to understand how your business operates and identify the goals that you want to achieve. We will then recommend computing options that support your goals.