Big Features for Small Networks

Business computer networks come in two basic varieties. Larger companies, from giant corporations to medium-size operations, use nets that are typically built around Novell NetWare or Windows NT servers. These nets demand care and feeding from highly trained administrators. Small businesses, if they are wired at all, usually string together a few computers using the simple Windows or Macintosh built-in networking.

The increasing importance of computers in even very small businesses is exposing the weaknesses of these simple networks: They offer little security, no data backups, no easy way to share an Internet connection, and they become difficult to manage if they grow beyond a handful of computers. Help is on the way. A new breed of server can deliver big office features at low cost and require little technical skill. Eventually, they may even find their way into your home.