Windows Server 2003 is a multipurpose operating system capable of handling a diverse set of server roles, depending on customer needs, in either a centralised or distributed fashion. Server 2003 can be utilised alone as a network file and print server for the storage and distribution of documents and files, however it is also frequently used as the platform for many other Microsoft Server products.

Terminal Services

Within the Windows 2003 Server product is the facility known as Terminal Services, this application uses thin-client technology (where the processing is done at the server rather than at the desktop) to provide remote workers with a reliable, high performance link directly into the company business systems and therefore access to network applications.

Active Directory

Active Directory is the directory service for the Windows Server 2003 operating systems, it stores information about objects on the network and makes this information easy for administrators and users to find, providing a logical, hierarchical organisation of directory information..

Windows Server Update Services

Windows Server 2003 contains several important new automated management tools including server configuration wizards and Windows Server Update Services. This service allows network administrators to deploy the latest Microsoft software patches and updates to Windows Server 2000 and 2003. The Server Update Services application also provides statistics and reports on which nodes are updated. The patches and updates require approval before being sent to each individual user or group of users, and all update resources stem from one centralised point with different distribution methods for scalability.

Group Policy Management

Managing group policies is made significantly easier using the new Group Policy Management Console. Prior to this, administrators were required to use several Microsoft tools to manage group policy. The Group Policy Management Console integrates the previously existing group policy functionality into a single, unified console, along with new capabilities such as a new user-friendly interface and simplified management of group policy related security.

Some of the many benefits of Windows 2003 Server are therefore :-

Dependability - Windows Server 2003 is the fastest, most reliable, most secure Windows server operating system ever offered by Microsoft
Productivity - Windows Server 2003 provides the tools that simplify deployment, management, and administration and maximise productivity
Connectivity - Windows Server provides an application platform that keeps employees, partners, systems and customers connected
Economy of scale - differing versions of Windows 2003 Server are available to suit the wide variety and sizes of organisations from small businesses to large corporates

For further information on Microsoft products please contact your HBC Account Manager or call the Sales department on 01794 830326.