[atorres0506]

Hello all,

I am a network/system administrator for a small company. I also have my side business fixing computers. Lately I've been getting contracts maintaining other small business computers. I never did any consulting and a few days ago a company called me so I can go and take a look at their network and see if it needs an upgrade or anything needed. I am so what comfortable with the job but not 100%. All I need is maybe a mind refresher from you guys. What should I look for in the network, including in the server? Are there any guidelines I can find in the internet to help me assess the network? I just want to be prepared. I am A+ and Network+ certified among others. All I know about the network that I will assess is, there is 1 server(file server) and maybe no more than 10 computers(XP PRO) accessing the file server and not part of a domain. The server has to be either 2000 or win 2003.

Any input is greatly appreciated.

[serverguy]

Might be a bit late but I can still give you a few ideas.

When they say upgrade you have to question what they want to achieve - is their something lacking from their current set up - or is it just a refresh / getting rid of old stuff before it gives trouble.

If its the latter and they are happy with how things are now, then I'd suggest finding out what switches / routers etc they use.

If it is a bunch of SOHO stuff you want to get shot of all that and get one decent switch, perhaps either a Dell Powerconnect 16 or 24 port or one of the HP Procurve 1800 series switches. Both have web management without being overkill.

Then look at how they get internet, what firewall etc they use. If their on a budget perhaps look at Smoothwall, Untangle is pretty slick and an easy sell, or otherwise just get a decent Cisco firewall / router.

Get a decent UPS to cover the network gear, maybe a rack for the network kit / server, patch panels etc. Get the infrastructure sorted first.

Then look at the server, maybe just needs an upgrade, bigger HD's but might be better just to replace it and get a warranty.

With 10 computer you would definitely be better off with a domain, darn sight easier for you to manage and sets you up with a maintenance contract - to complex for them to manage easily. Many other benefits - easier backup, hot desking, securtiy, remote access etc etc etc.

Maybe look at Small Business Server 2008 - or even SBS 2003 if you prefer, it should be around for a while yet. I'd go 2008 now. Or indeed Server 2003, definitely get them off 2000 if they are still on that. Or put them on 2008 but I think a SBS would be more useful and simpler.

Then look at the workstations, how old are they, do they just need reformatting or do they all need replacing. If they need memory / process upgrades by the time you factor your time you are best just replacing them.

Once you have an idea of what the setup is like, speak to the owners, find out what they need / want and find out what sort of money they can afford.

Then present your suggestions, going to a domain etc, or just a bit of a facelift, see what they say.

Hope this helps

[atorres0506]

Thanks for your reply.

Basically the company wants me to go in and just look to see if they are good how they are now or if there's an upgrade soon. I will do like you suggested and look at how they are setup and their equipment. As far as for their workstations, 3 of their computers I fixed are all Dell Dimensions 9200 which I still considered to be new and a few Dell laptops. One thing that I would probably have to talk to them is having them in a Domain since they already told me that one of the things they would like is for a way to backup their systems. Most likely a VPN for their workers traveling. Still don't know what kind of server they have.

Thank you for all your input. It's funny because I do all this almost daily at my office. It shouldn't be a problem then.

[serverguy]

The only other thing I can say is if they are going to be upgraded and you are responsible - make sure you make them do it properly or not at all.

There is nothing worse than trying to install and maintain a network with old / unreliable / unsuitable equipment.

But obviously that somewhat depends on how much money they are making as a company...