The SBS User Group is comprised of consultants and other people tasked with the responsibility of running a computer network for a small business. We discuss topics relevant to keeping small networks running reliably, efficiently, and safely. We work together to understand technical and business issues pertaining to making smaller businesses run well through the best use of computer technology.
In many ways, a small business' computer network is just like a large business' network. After all, it has servers running Windows NT, 2000, 2003, Exchange, IIS, SQL, a firewall, VPNs for home users and for branch offices, some sort of internet connection, and users running Windows, Office, and other productivity applications.
In some ways, however, small business networks are different from larger networks. Probably the biggest difference is that very few small businesses have their own IT staff. Instead, these businesses run their networks with the help of outside consultants, and much of their day-to-day network maintenance, user support, and helpdesk activities are handled by whichever people in the business are most familiar with the particular issues at-hand.
Small businesses face challenges with their technology within a certain range. They don't generally have to deal with complex Active Directory structures, intrusion detection systems, WAN topologies, extranets, or data interchange among disparate legacy systems.
But these businesses sure need their servers up and running, and they can't tolerate being hacked. They need their single email server to run without fail, and they need their printers to work. They need to deal with telephone companies and ISPs, and they need protection from viruses. They need to get as much out of their technology as they can.
Our group looks at the issues presented in these businesses, and we work to find the best systems to keep these businesses running. No matter what your level of expertise, if you support these businesses or you work in them, and you want to see their technology help rather than hinder them, visit our group.
For more information, drop me an email.
Eliot Sennett
Founder