Specing my first "real" server

[cstech]

Looking for some ideas as to models and specifications to look for. This is the first real server I have been asked to setup on my own for a client. Most of the clients I have are using a NAS or already have something in place that I maintain. This is a non-profit humane society. They have currently 7 workstations and two laptops as well as a couple of mobile devices that connect to the WiFi only. What they need it to do: File server for an Access database file with a proprietary front end. Domain controller lite use in that it would simply manage the backups of the workstations as well as handle AD user log-ins. They also have a few network printers in the office but that is easily shared. They do not need exchange, but managing O365 may be a benefit for them in the near future as I am trying to get them to switch from free gmail accounts to actual business class email and file sharing services. They may want in the future remote access to their access database file through a VPN (trying to get them on a Untangle UTM as well... one step at a time) as well as maybe remote web workplace with profiles and user folders on the server. (probably not using correct terms as some of this is still a learning curve for me as well)

They have access to the OS licenses through a non-profit vendor for low rates and will be getting that through them. I am looking at getting Windows Server 2012 R2 Standard for this application. Also looking at getting upgrade licenses for the systems they have with Win Home to Pro. This vendor does not have server hardware and they want me to get the system together. I am a lenovo partner but have access to HP and some other brands as well through my distributors. Any thoughts on products that would be good for them?

 

[TAPtech]

Look into 2012 Essentials. This will be very helpful for you to "get your feet wet" with server operating systems, and it also seems like a great fit for the client.

It has a built-in centralized backup software, easy remote access setup, wizards for everything, native O365 integration, Active Directory, Built-in VPN,etc. Max of 25 users.

 

[YeOldeStonecat]

I'm in agreement with Tapa.....Server Essential.

Server hardware....select a model with a 3x year warranty...I'm not up on Lenovo servers. But I'd shoot for a 6x core Xeon, minimum 16 gigs of RAM, pair of 146 gig 10,000 rpm SAS drives RAID 1 up front for the OS, second pair of those RAID 1 for data or move to 300 gig drives for larger data storage.

Beef up the RAID controller at least 1x notch...true hardware based one.

 

[Markverhyden]

Ditto on the 2012 Essentials with one exception. I never, ever, ever, recommend using a M$ server OS for a VPN server. Always use an appliance or a *nix/OS X box.

By the way, if they are a qualified non-profit they can deal directly with Dell or HP and get that pricing on everything. One of their entry level servers would do fine for that size office. Like a T110 with mirrored drives.

 

[TAPtech]

It seems that routers do a much better job of VPN, but the new MS VPN setup is actually pretty decent. Also it integrates into Windows 7/8 laptops really well for workers that are frequently in/out of the LAN.

You should try to spec the highest performance server that the budget allows, and is reasonable for the installation. As Mark suggested, I would agree that a T110 would do a fine job. If the company is planning on expanding, though, you might consider a T320 with a PERC RAID controller. The users probably wouldn't notice a performance difference unless they are really using that database. I think that's where a good RAID controller and SAS drives will really shine.

 

[marley1]

T110 would be a good pick.

I like to stick with Raid 10. SATA drives should be fine.

Just make sure you select the warranty you want.

 

[e2346437]

I am a lenovo partner but have access to HP and some other brands as well through my distributors. Any thoughts on products that would be good for them?

I am also a Lenovo dealer; you can also consider a ThinkServer with Lenovo Windows Server Foundations 2012. It may end up being cheaper than a non-profit version of Essentials. It's ust a "plain-Jane" version of 2012 for up to 15 users. Cheaper than Essentials, but on the other hand doesn't have backup, but then again, what good is backup unless it is offsite? Carbonite has pricing for Non-profits, or iBackup could be had for $150/year for 500GB and allows you unlimited workstations & servers.

 

[YeOldeStonecat]

...hand doesn't have backup, but then again, what good is backup unless it is offsite?

Uhm....huh?

 

[YeOldeStonecat]

Ditto on the 2012 Essentials with one exception. I never, ever, ever, recommend using a M$ server OS for a VPN server. Always use an appliance or a *nix/OS X box.

Agreed on VPN...however RWW is an RDP proxy, all over 443 via remote desktop client. Quite secure, and easy to use.

 

[Markverhyden]

The problem with 2012 Foundations is that there is no upgrade path to anything else. 2012 Essentials allows one to upgrade to 2012 Standard if the need arises.

Yep, RWW is a very acceptable solution to traditional VPN. Given how M$ has improved connectivity with W7 and greater I would select RWW over VPN for those clients.

 

[cstech]

Thanks for all the advice. I am talking with the Lenovo rep at my distributor today to discuss a build for this solution. Will be going with server essentials as they don't and won't be needing any of the added features of standard so no need to bog things down. I have used essentials before and really like the ease of setup for a small solution such as this. Their network utilization is and will be fairly minimal with just a little bit of simple file share and the database that is accessed by three people max. I think adding the RWW would be a big help so they could access the database away from the office so that will be one big thing to have setup for them. Again thanks for all of your help.