Microsoft Windows Server 2003: Consulting, Support, Troubleshooting

Windows Server 2003
Microsoft's Windows Server 2003 operating system provides a dependable, enterprise-ready computing environment that brings significant improvements over its predecessor, Windows 2000 Server. These new features take the next step forward in building on the core of reliability, availability, scalability, and security introduced in Windows 2000 Server, making Windows Server 2003 the fastest, most reliable, and most secure Windows server operating system ever.

The Windows Server 2003 family comprises four editions:

• Windows Server 2003, Standard Edition, is a dependable server operating system for everyday needs of business of all sizes, providing the optimal solution for file and printer sharing, secure Internet connectivity, centralized desktop application deployment, and a rich connected environment among employees, partners, and customers.
• Windows Server 2003, Enterprise Edition, is the platform of choice for large enterprises as well as small and medium-size businesses to develop, deliver, and secure and robust applications, Web services, and infrastructure.
• Windows Server 2003, Datacenter Edition, is the server of choice for business-critical and mission-critical applications that demand the highest levels of scalability and availability.
• Windows Server 2003, Web Edition, is optimized for serving and hosting web pages, while maintaining the core functionalities that support enhanced reliability, manageability, and security.

Features of Microsoft Windows Server 2003
Windows Server 2003 provides a wealth of powerful new features and improved functionality over Windows 2000 Server. Highlights include:

• Active Directory performance and flexibility is faster and more robust over unreliable WAN connections thanks to more efficient synchronization and replication as well as caching of credentials in branch office domain controllers.
• Enhancements to the Distributed File System (DFS) and Encrypting File System (EFS) allow for powerful, flexible file sharing and storage.
• Enhanced Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) providers and command-line tools for server tasks give administrators great granular control.
• To make storage and backup easier, Windows Server 2003 includes the Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS), which provides point-in-time backups of networked shares. Users can easily access previous versions of their files through the Windows Explorer by right-clicking on a file or folder.
• Windows Server 2003 is optimized for hosting XML-based Web services thanks to native support of Microsoft .NET and XML with the inclusion of the .NET Framework.
• Significant networking enhancements in Windows Server 2003 include Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6), Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPoE), and Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) over Network Address Translation (NAT).
• Common Language Runtime (CLR) safeguards networks from malicious or poorly designed code.
• Credential Management provides a secure store of user credentials, including passwords and public key infrastructure (X.509) certificates. This provides a single sign-on experience for users, including roaming users.
• The Encrypting File System (EFS) is the technology used to store encrypted files on NTFS volumes. Encrypted files and folders are easy to use as they appear just like any other file or folder—transparent to authorized users but inaccessible to anyone else. EFS is particularly beneficial for mobile users who may face a higher risk of computer loss or theft.
• Enhanced support for virtual private network (VPN) technologies, including a remote access server that supports both dial-up and virtual private network connections, providing flexibility and security for remote access.
• 802.1x wireless network support provides security and performance improvements for wireless local area networks (LANs). These include automatic key management, user authentication and authorization prior to LAN access. Fast recovery virtually eliminates packet corruption and interruption over high-latency wireless network connections.
• Headless server provides the ability to install and manage a computer without a monitor, VGA display adaptor, keyboard, or mouse. Support for management controllers and management ports allows servers to be managed even when a system has crashed.
• Auto-configuration for multiple networks provides the mobile computer user seamless operations on both office and home networks without having to manually reconfigure TCP/IP settings.
• Voice over IP (VoIP) enhances Remote Assistance by enabling a voice session at the time the Remote Help Connection is established.

How Exsos Can Provide Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Help
The complexity and integration demands of Microsoft Windows Server 2003 requires an IT consultant with hands-on expertise and broad knowledge in designing and building cohesive end-to-end business technology solutions. The experience of Exsos’ Microsoft-certified consulting team, with an average of over 10 years of background in Microsoft integration, assures you success in identifying the edition and configuration of Windows Server 2003 that aligns best with your business goals. Exsos can also help you with planning, deploying, managing and troubleshooting sophisticated IT solutions based on Microsoft Windows Server 2003.

Exsos’ Consulting Services for Microsoft Technology
For small and mid-sized businesses, Exsos' Microsoft-certified consultants offer IT consulting services for the entire family of Microsoft .NET Enterprise Servers, Windows Server 2003, and Microsoft line-of-business applications. Exsos’ migration, integration, update, support, and custom programming services include planning and system design, installation and deployment. Find out more about Exsos’ Microsoft Solutions.