Local Servers still make sense in an age of online services.
June 29, 2017
Local Servers still make sense in an age of online services.
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Overall Satisfaction with Windows Server
Windows server is used to share file and printer resources on the network. It addresses the problem of managing and storing users' files and printers on the network. It is also used to host a payroll and CRM software that is used by the payroll and PR dept. It allows managing users over a large number workstations and can be used to share files with non-Windows clients like Macs.
- Share files and printers.
- User account management.
- Active Directory integration with other software.
- Group policies that automate settings when logging in with a Windows domain desktop.
- Windows updates can be obtrusive and disruptive and is unavoidable without compromising security.
- Security vs. other OSs is substandard and requires a lot of attention and time to maintain.
- Customer support is basically limited to online forums unless separate support is purchased from Microsoft.
- Windows server has had a positive ROI through allowing us to run our on site payroll, CRM software
- Windows server has had a positive ROI by running local file storage and managing user logins.
- Windows Serverr has had a negative ROI impact by increasing time to manage and renew complicated licenses.
Windows Server allows much more control and flexibility than online file storage solutions. Windows is also much faster than cloud file storage and does not require the Internet. Greater flexibility and control means more time managing user that includes upgrading servers and managing, purchasing, renewing licenses server and server licenses. I would choose windows server for greater control and faster performance. The online cloud file services offer more convenience in terms of backups and upgrades that come with the services by default.