Running your own server gives you security, flexibility, and enough virtual space to grow your business. Microsoft Exchange Server brings convenience and ease-of-use to private server configuration and operation. What can your company accomplish with a Microsoft Exchange Server?

What is the Exchange Server?

The Microsoft Exchange Server gives business owners the ability to set up their own computer network. The server allows communication between connected devices. Any authorized device that connects to the network has access to a number of popular Microsoft applications.

• Group and individual e-mail accounts
• Productivity apps like Word and Excel
• SharePoint
• Shared and private calendars

The Exchange Server allows IT departments to create a customized computing network that addresses the needs and workstyle of the business they serve. Unlike shared servers, businesses that use the Exchange are in complete control of the programs, settings, and configuration of their network.

Exchange servers are available in three different formats to fit your space and budget.

• Have your server physically installed on your property. This option gives IT departments the highest level of control.
• Access services from a cloud-based virtual server. This is technically a shared server that Microsoft maintains. However, IT departments still have the ability to configure settings and access.
• A hybrid solution gives you the security and capabilities of a physical server with the freedom and mobility of cloud deployment.

The option you choose depends on your budget, the number of expected users, and the technical proficiency of your IT employees. O365 products can be added to an Exchange package for extra functionality.

Server Settings You Need to Know About

These are some of the most important settings IT professionals need to configure to create a useful and functional network.

• How much room do you need? That question can be tricky to answer directly. Luckily, there is a tool that helps you calculate how much space your company needs for users, programs, and data storage.
• What email domains will be accepted? All domains and email address policies must be properly specified to ensure smooth communications between departments and co-workers.
• Is your firewall configured to allow proper DNS setup? This can be difficult for on-premises equipment. Improper setup can prevent email exchange and hamper business communications.
• Have you set up sufficiently addressed data loss prevention? Make a schedule to check for security updates. With an independent server, your IT department is solely responsible for defending the system against unauthorized or malicious access. A big part of this is making sure only select employees have administrative access to the network.
• Do you have the right antivirus software? Make sure your choice follows the official advice presented by Microsoft.

How a Private Server Benefits Businesses

• A dedicated server allows businesses to secure their data. A private intranet makes it more difficult for unauthorized users to access the system. Users must be added by IT professionals, giving businesses the ability to grant specified access.
• Private servers give businesses more flexibility. Shared servers have limited space and capabilities. Universal settings are designed to fit the needs of the highest number of consumers. A dedicated server can be configured to meet the specific needs of the business that owns it.
• You’ll never run out of space with a private server. The Exchange program features large mailboxes, archiving services, and customizable retention policies make it easy to keep files organized and accessible for as long as they are needed.
• Operating a private server may reduce overall costs. With a little extra training, your existing IT staff can learn to install and maintain your Microsoft Exchange Server. This means you don’t have to pay extra fees for outsourced server help.

Get your IT professionals certified in Core Solutions of Exchange Server 2013 with an Infotec training. This instructor-led course prepares learners to successfully complete the Microsoft Certification Exam. Infotec offers a variety of other certification courses that qualify your IT staff to run all the most popular Microsoft business applications. Contact our representatives to learn more.

For more information about Infotec or any of our programs click here: http://www.infotectraining.com/ or https://ops.infotecpro.com/course_schedule/course_schedule.cfm.