[RESOLVED] Database set-up for geographically dispersed campuses

[dee-u]

What would be the easiest and cheapest set-up to "combine" data from schools dispersed geographically? Its difficult to set-up an internet connection in 1 campus as it is located in a very remote location. Could we just use one server and let the campuses connect to it thru WAN(vpn?)? Or could we try a distributed server? We are using MySql for this and a C# desktop application.

Thanks for any inputs.

[GBeats]

I would imagine a centralized system would have many more benefits, mainly easy setup and maintenance of a single server and database, just a single administrator could handle it and maintain it and all the clients in the other locations can be maintained and setup very easily. a distributed system would generally require a client, a server and a database system in every location and then a master server that would be used as a mediator between them...in theory at least.

since its unlikely your going to have amounts of data that say google would be handling i would personally go with simple centralized setup on a single server.

[FunkyDexter]

What are the security requirements?

I would have thought the easiest way would be to hide access to the database behind web services and expose them. You're client app could then access the web services from anywhere that has an internet (or any other type of) connection. The issue with this is that you're not sitting behind a firewall so you're more hackable, though no more than the public facing elements of any web site driven business.

[topshot]

Its difficult to set-up an internet connection in 1 campus as it is located in a very remote location. Could we just use one server and let the campuses connect to it thru WAN(vpn?)?

If this very remote location is on your WAN already, a centralized server would be easiest and cheapest (and more secure). You make it sound like it has no external network connection, but perhaps you have a dedicated line going to it.

[dee-u]

Thanks guys, I guess a centralized server would be the way to go. In connection to this, what would be the minimum specs for such a server? The campuses are kilometers away from the main campus.

[topshot]

Distance has nothing to do with the server. Number of simultaneous users and what those users are doing and storing is what matters. You may be able to get by fine with a very basic server. You may need a cluster of high-end ones. My guess from what few hints you've given would be closer to the former unless you're going to have lots of people connected at once running long reports, adding and updating data, etc.

You will likely want at least 2 servers so you can replicate them for uptime availability unless you're OK with any downtime from whatever backup/restore plan you have in place currently. The second can be a little "weaker" since it would rarely be used outside replication.