Installing Server Software

Installing Server Software
Watch Where You Step

What”s not to love? All you need do is buy your company one of those nice boxes of software that promises to help you make more money and, then, plop it on the server . It”s just like installing software on your home machine, right? Actually, no.

If you indiscriminately plop, you could really screw up your server. A server isn”t as forgiving as a desktop computer. You need to do a little leg work or hand it over to someone who knows how to plop properly. Follow YOUR COMPANY”S suggestions below and we”ll have you up and running without the risk of crashing and burning.

There are two fundamental realities of adding software. Reality #1 is applications don”t necessarily play well together. And, the bru ha ha this creates is a little like a bar fight that spreads and collects normally peaceful folks along the way, ultimately tumbling onto the front sidewalk just before the lights go out.

Rule #2 is not all programs are written by superstar software developers. As your system goes haywire, keep in mind someone has to graduate at the bottom of online slots their class.

You may have installed poorly-written software, which is not good when your accountant is trying to get through his spread sheet down the hall.

Before you install a third-party program on your server, follow a few rules and you will be up and running without a punch being thrown.

1. The easiest and shortest route is to allow a pro to get it done. It doesn”t need to be expensive. Just ensure you have someone certified on your server software. An IT Pro will ensure you don”t make the kind of mistake that requires a more expensive IT Pro to fix. The task is not complicated, if you know what you are doing.

2. Research. Before purchasing the software invest fifteen –minutes with Google. Grab the info you need about possible conflicts. Spot check the reviews.

3. When you add software make sure the publisher of the software is a certified partner of the folks who wrote your operating system. If you use a Microsoft platform, choose a software company that was developed by a Microsoft Certified Partner.

4. Ask questions. If there are problems endemic to the application you want to install, chances are there are plenty of people who learned about them the hard way. As example, if you are running Small Business Server 2003, check out the Windows Small Business Server Community page, which not only links to forums where you can post your question, but also to the blogs of those who know what they are doing . You can also drop into local forums, including the Cincinnati Professionals” Network Association You can find them www.cinpa.org. If you use other software, check out the publishers website for the latest info.

4. Network. When you have a question about your server, there is no substitute for person-to-person contact with a knowledgeable source. There are a number of technology user groups, including Cinpa. The advice you”ll get is free.

Reprinted with permission from DLP Technologies