Networking, Hardware Issues, SQL Server and Terminal Services

Session VII

What is a computer network ?

Computer Network:

A group of two or more computers linked together electronically.

Common Types of Networks:

• Fast Ethernet

• Gigabit Ethernet

• Wireless – B

• Wireless – G

• 100mbit Data Packet Transfer

• Requires Fast Ethernet Network Adapters and Switches

• Most common type of network

Fast Ethernet:

Gigabit Ethernet:

•1000mbit data packet transfer•Requires Gigabit Network Adapters and Switches•Gaining popularity with affordability

Wireless:

• 802.11B Capable of 11mbit Data Transfer• 802.11G capable of 54mbit or 108mbit • No Wires!!• Ad-Hoc / Access Point• Network Bridge to Wired Network• Data Encryption Recommended

Types of Networking:

• Peer to Peer– Workstations linked to other workstations– “Share” resources to create network devices– Basic security of password protection

• Client / Server– Workstations linked to dedicated servers– More advanced networking capabilities– Enhanced security of Active Directory– More versatile and capable of higher production

Networking Hardware:

• Switches / Hubs / Routers• Desktop / Server Network Adapters• Network Operating System Software• Mass Storage Media • Back Up System• Fault Tolerant Devices• Security Components

Hardware Issues:

• Redundancy– Server hard drives (RAID)– Scanners– Any other mission critical pieces?

• How long can you afford to be down?

Most Important Considerations:

• Reliability

• Fault Tolerance

• Security

• Speed / Performance

• Usability

• Scalable

• Adaptability

Recommendations:

• Implement and upgrade to the latest hardware devices

• Implement and upgrade to the latest software versions

• Maintain comprehensive documentation

• Implement and test effective backup solution

• Utilize qualified support individuals

• Evaluate needs annually

SQL Server

• Latest Service Packs– SQL 2000 SP3a– SQL 7 SP4

• Microsoft Free Tools – Microsoft Baseline Security

Analyzer 1.2.1 (MBSA) – Best Practices Analyzer Tool for

MS SQL Server 2000 1.0

• SQL Server 2005 coming next summer

Terminal Services

• Ports needed for access tcp/3389

• Licensing Issues – Windows 2003 Server

– Small Business Server

– Terminal Server

• Other issues

Questions?