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Windows Server 2003: Still Getting the Job Done

Microsoft is behind a number of technologies that suit the needs of home and business users in both the desktop and server environment.  In general, Microsoft separates its server operating systems into four main categories: Applications, Collaboration, IT Operations and Security, essentially covering all the vital aspects required to running a highly efficient network.

The Windows Server operating system represents a line of fully integrated software tools developed by Microsoft.  While functionality varies among version releases, each aims to form the solid infrastructure needed for operating with various network components.  In addition, most of the company’s server solutions provide support for the Visual Studio software package, helping designers and IT developers in the process of creating and managing web environments by utilizing their own custom set of programming tools.  This article will introduce you to one of Microsoft’s most popular and successful server operating systems: Windows Server 2003.

Why it’s Still Prevalent

Even though Microsoft released Windows Server 2008 only a short time ago, Windows Server 2003 is still widely used in hosting and network environments.  Why?  The answer is simple – it continues to be one of the most reliable hosting platforms available.  This server operating system made its debut in April of 2003.  Since then, it has been highly regarded as a more secure and powerful solution than its predecessor, Windows 2000 Server.  Because of its efficiency in the network setting and seamlessly compatibility with Microsoft .Net technologies, Windows Server 2003 was referred to as “the .Net Server” for a considerable amount of time.

Windows Server 2003 offers many enhancements over previous versions, including the ability to improve identity and access administration while reducing storage management expense at the same time.  It includes a highly competitive web platform, offering cost-efficient server management for enterprises and small businesses alike.  The software incorporates features and technological characteristics of past releases into a single package, offering a tightly integrated suite of tools that aid in development, data management and security.  With the launch of Windows Server 2003, Microsoft greatly simplified the task of network management and improved security and efficiency across a broad range of network environments.

Enhanced Data Management

What makes Windows Server 2003 so powerful is its seamless compatibility with various Microsoft technologies, mainly the SQL Server.  Released in November of 2004, Microsoft SQL Server is an RDBMS (relational database management system) that utilizes Transact-SQL as its primary query language.  Whereas most of the prevision versions of SQL Server were mainly used for small to medium sized databases, the 2005 release brought forth capabilities that made it ideal for large databases as well, making it a reliable solution for small businesses or large enterprises.  SQL Server 2005 provides for the easy management of data, integrating efficient security tools and enhanced access to business data.   The server offers a robust, state of the art, fully integrated management system that is relied on by businesses and organizations across the world.

While you can argue that Microsoft technologies are expensive, there is no denying the power they deliver.  Dynamic platforms such as the SQL Server make Windows 2003 a highly extensible networking tool capable of handling the simplest to the most complex needs.

What is Managed Hosting?

Most large enterprises have an infrastructure in place that allows them to host their own web servers.  They have a team of IT experts to handle all the technical aspects along with developers to step in when updates are required.  However, if you are running a successful yet small to medium sized business, there is a good chance that you don’t have such resources.  In this case, you just may need a managed hosting provider.

Managed hosting refers to a hosting solution in which the provider tends to all the administrative tasks and operation of a dedicated server.  This type of arrangement is ideal for business owners who need a full turnkey service for managing hardware and software components, storage, network connectivity and all the requirements associated with a dedicated server.  Managed hosting is preferred by the those who desire a high level of support and services while  maintaining significant control over their server.  Because so many businesses rely on dedicated servers for mission critical tasks, the technical support, responsiveness and infrastructure of a managed hosting solution is typically greater than any other form of web hosting.

Though more expensive on the surface, managed hosting is actually a cost effective solution as it spares you of the large up front investment on the necessary software and hardware for the server.  Instead, you simply pay a monthly fee in return for a fully managed hosting solution.  In this regard, managed hosting is quite similar to outsourcing the technical aspects of your business to a team of professionals who are better equipped to handle them.

Who Needs Managed Hosting?

Ideal for the business who lacks technical knowledge and resources, managed hosting is also the perfect solution for those who need to focus on the core of their business.  This environment alleviates the hassle of maintaining a web server as well as the performance and security issues that come along with shared hosting.  The backing of a reliable infrastructure pretty much guarantees stability and all the flexibility you need at a fixed cost.

Managed Hosting Features

The services provided by a managed host range widely but generally include private networks, security products and database administration.  Some also extend their services to fully managed SQL server hosting.  In regard to server administration which is the standard feature, you can expect services like managed storage, connectivity, load balancing and monitoring and reporting of the server.  In most cases, physical maintenance such as servicing of the equipment is covered by the provider as well.  Add-on features such as software management can usually be obtained for an additional fee.

Summary

Managed hosting can be viewed as a tailor made hosting solution, allowing organizations to focus on marketing and actually running their businesses while all the complex tasks are handled by the experts.  As this solution doesn’t require a large up front investment, businesses can enjoy significant cost savings on handling a dedicated server.  When signing up with a good provider, you can better assure the availability of your online business with a server that puts out the best performance.