Just two decades ago, there weren't many options for businesses when it came to server platforms. Businesses could choose between large, expensive high-powered mainframe server platform solutions, or they could buy server platform solutions that operated on microcomputers. Today, all of that has changed.

When you set out to buy a server platform application, make certain it's one that meets your needs and that your IT staff can operate. It does little good to purchase the latest server platform program if you don't have anyone to administer it.

There are at least three categories of server software platforms you need to consider:

1. Choose a network computing operating system that fits the size, needs and resources of your business.

2. Pick a file server platform that's reliable and secure to protect your company's data.

3. Use web server platform software that can handle the amount of traffic you'll get and that has the functionality you want.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Count on your network operating system to provide benefits to your internal work flow

Network operating systems are a type of business server platform software that provides printer, file, database and application sharing functionality to the computers on a network. This type of program also provides network management tools to your IT department.

I recommend: Consider Novell Netware, which you can get from Software For Less if your computing environment includes many different server types. If your servers and PCs all run on Microsoft Windows, consider Windows 2008 server, available from CDW.

Use file servers to store data and host applications

Understand that much of your business computing and data storage needs rely on your file server platform software. File servers store data, host applications and protect your company's information assets.

I recommend: Get a trial server from Sun Microsystems to explore that particular file server platform. Use Windows Server 2008 Standard, available from TigerDirect.com, for your basic file server needs.

Trust web servers to host both internet and intranet sites

Determine your business needs for scale and security when it comes to web servers. Some web server platform software works well in an enterprise setting, while other web server platform software functions better in a smaller environment.

I recommend: Apache web server software for Unix is the industry standard when it comes to hosting Internet web sites. Consider the Apache GUI for Windows from HQWare to make Apache management easier. Internet Information Services from Microsoft is included as part of the Windows Server software, which you can buy from Newegg.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Develop a strong relationship with your server platform software vendors to insure you get the best price possible.
• •  Consider buying your server platform application from a service vendor who can provide support after you've purchased the product.