If your company has 2 or more users that need to share access to files, applications, contacts, calendars, or require protected access to certain files such as financial data then you are  good candidate for a server.

The typical small business must "bite the bullet" and move from a "peer-to-peer" network where there is no server to a "client-server" network when they have somewhere between 3 and 5 computers.

With three computers file sharing amongst computers along with printer sharing and backup begins to become confusing as well as unreliable and maintenance per computer begins to dramatically go up because each computer is effectively serving as a mini server in the network.

In some cases a server is not the right answer. Some industries like the insurance industry have server side software offered by the parent company or the carrier. In this case backup and file storage is handled outside of the office and there is no need to have a server inside of the office due to cost/bennefit.

In those instances we have unique solutions that can allow the sharing of calendars, contacts, files, and CRM information via hosted services. Instead of having to put out $5000.00 or more on a small business server setup, you can pay a small monthly fee and use what is called a hosted solution where the software that fits your needs is installed on a shared server out on the internet. This solution is completely secure, and because you have other company's sharing the cost of the server it is far more affordable in the right situations.

If you are still not sure if your business is ready for a server, or if you just have other questions... feel free to call us any time at 850-224-1008 and a small business technology expert will be happy to answer your questions and get you on the right track!