Implementing a server

[Pythagoras]

How hard/indepth is it hooking up a server?

Right now at work we are on a pier to pier network. The boss wants a server for some new software we are going to purchase. The local computer shop wants $6000.00 to install this server, so you can see why were considering the idea of installing it ourselves. I like to think I have a pretty good understanding of how to do it but, since I've never actually done it I am a little nervous.

Let me know if any of you have had experince with this type of thing and what are the steps involved for the installation.

[-TPM-]

Once you know what sort of thing you want it's pretty easy.
The question is what exactly do you want?
You need to think about what you want from this server. If you just want a machine to host your network software licences, or do you want to setup a domain running email, printing, web site, FTP etc...
The more you want, the better machine you'll need. It sound's like a fairly small company, so I'd say a $6000 server might be an overkill. If you wanted you could literally get a fast PC and install it as a server.

[Pythagoras]

No, the question is not what kind of server to purchase, but how hard is it to hook up and get it configured properly. The $6000 was just the labor cost for them to come out and install it.

[visualAd]

Well the kind of server you want is relevant - you need to decide exactly what kind of Operating System it will use, the software required and then decide on the hardware. You then need to determine whether or not you have the necessary skills and time to configure the software and hardware.

[Hack]

Also, who is going to run the wiring through the walls and ceiling that will enabled the installation of individual network workstation jacks in each cube so that you machines can connect to your new server?

What about setting up a router?

[-TPM-]

No, the question is not what kind of server to purchase, but how hard is it to hook up and get it configured properly. The $6000 was just the labor cost for them to come out and install it.

$6000 to setup a server!!!!! OMG!!!! How much are they charging for the machine????

Heck for $6000 I'll fly over and set it up for you...

[-TPM-]

Also, who is going to run the wiring through the walls and ceiling that will enabled the installation of individual network workstation jacks in each cube so that you machines can connect to your new server?

What about setting up a router?

I'm guessing they have all or most of the wiring already as their running pier 2 pier ATM, but your right topologie is definatly a consideration.

[Pythagoras]

All the wiring and hardware is in place.

The OS is Windows Small Business Server 2000.

[-TPM-]

What services do you want to run? : login, web, print spooler, ftp, etc. The more you want to run the longer setup will take...