Where to Install OS for Server

  • Thread starter Thread starter johnny
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johnny

If this is the wrong newsgroup, please redirect me.

I have a three computer XP Pro peer-to-peer set up. I want to add a fourth
computer to use strictly as a server, store all the data there, and move any
peripherals I have to it. Should I install two hard drives on what will be
the new server, install XP Pro on one hard drive and store all the data on a
separate one?

I'd like to know the advantages and disadvantages. Thank you.
 
johnny said:
If this is the wrong newsgroup, please redirect me.

I have a three computer XP Pro peer-to-peer set up. I want to add a fourth
computer to use strictly as a server, store all the data there, and move any
peripherals I have to it. Should I install two hard drives on what will be
the new server, install XP Pro on one hard drive and store all the data on a
separate one?

I'd like to know the advantages and disadvantages. Thank you.
Click to expand...

Two hard drives is a good idea - if possible, it would be a good idea to
make a backup of the OS drive should it fail at some point (and back it
up whenever changes are made to the OS). Not to mention regular backups
of the data drive should be done as well.

There are several advantages - backups are easier, defragging is easier
(because you shouldn't have to defrag the OS drive very often), disaster
recovery is easier (because most likely only one drive will at a time),
hacking the server's OS is more difficult, lots of stuff like that.

The major disadvantage is the cost of the extra drive, but that is
really minimal.

In any case, be sure to install and maintain antivirus, spyware, and a
good firewall on the 'server', especially if it's going to be connected
to the Internet.
 
Thanks for your help. I do have antivirus, spyware and a good firewall.
Right now I have the antivirus and spyware installed on all the computers.
Do I really just need those installed on the server?

I am thinking of using Dantz Retrospect for backup software. I think I can
use it to make a backup of the OS and the data drive. Do you know anything
about it?
 
johnny said:
Thanks for your help. I do have antivirus, spyware and a good firewall.
Right now I have the antivirus and spyware installed on all the computers.
Do I really just need those installed on the server?
Click to expand...

That stuff should be installed on all your PCs, including the server. I
merely mentioned it on the server because all your data and peripherals
will be on it, thus it is your most important piece of equipment.
I am thinking of using Dantz Retrospect for backup software. I think I can
use it to make a backup of the OS and the data drive. Do you know anything
about it?
Click to expand...

I've heard of Retrospect, but never used it. Can't help you there.
 
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