SME Linux print and file 'server'?

G

Gamer

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Hi,

I know diddly about Linux.
We've got a small office of 5 workstations on an ethernet network, sharing ADSL through a DHCP router. All workstations are Windows (Vista and XP).

One of the XP machines is acting as the 'server', sharing the couple of printers and is being used as a backup location. It's not an ideal situation to use a busy workstation like this as the server, so we're thinking of having a dedicated 'server' to share the printers and be a file share/store location.

Our options are either another Windows machine which I am familiar with. Load up windows, connect and share printers, setup file shares and basically you're done. Don't need a permanent monitor attached, even a mouse or keyboard doesn't need to be present all the time. Simply keep it powered via the UPS and tuck the tower under a desk somewhere.

The alternative is a linux server. The initial advantage is not spending any money on another operating system. Is there any other advantage?

Being someone who knows nothing about linux, am I biting off more than I can chew by trying to go the linux route? Can linux share printers with Windows machines for starters? Will it work fine on the same DHCP router setup? Basically, I'm looking for advice on the way forward here.

Thanks.
 
Hi

Yes, there is a Linux distro which can do the work you want.

It will be able to share printers although I'm not so sure about USB printers... but if it is free, then surely it's worth a shot.

Filesharing can also be enhanced with basic security (read/read+write/deny)

It have a built-in antivirus scanner which will scan for (and remove virus files). This option can be enabled/disabled.

The likely candidate is SME server from Contribs.org

Initial installation is done via a CD Rom and you'll need a keyboard and monitor. Once it is installed and configured, you can administrate it via your web browser.

Backups can also be done via your web browser, or with a compatible tape drive.

I have used SME server for a while now, and it's very stable.

HTH

Libs
 
Take a look at ClarkConnect v5 Community version. I use it for all my server installations and it works great. http://www.clarkconnect.com

If you are in Cape Town, PM your contact details and I can assist if you want
 
It is only a 5 PC workstation? Take your pick of any Linux distro.

I hate to say this, but Ubuntu/Ubuntu LTS would be perfect as well. If you have installed Windows on a PC before then you will be able to handle the more user friendly Linux installations.

There is no rush right? No need to have it running before Friday? Then get you hands on a Linux distro of your choice, install it and make an informed decision on whether or not it is user friendly enough for you.

Is there any other advantage?
Click to expand...
Security (no viruses) and free. If you pay for Linux then you are being robbed, unless you are paying for support.

Also you can use a much older PC if the load on the server is not going to be huge, and judging from your description this is the case.

If the box is going to be close to another workstation then you can always get yourself a KVM switch, handy little hardware!
Lets you share Monitor, keyboard and mouse with two or more PC's. Not sure what they cost nowadays but I'm sure you can pick one up for cheaper than what you would pay for a new keyboard and mouse.

Can linux share printers with Windows machines for starters? Will it work fine on the same DHCP router setup?
Click to expand...
If not apparent already, yes and yes.
 
if you are in joburg phone me i can assist you i have configured countless clarckconnect servers before
 
The catch with ClarkConnect is that you need to register (for some functions eg dynamic dns) to work.

Also, when more than 5 users try to connect, it will be denied, and you'll have to upgrade your ClarkConnect license from free to commercial.

What is the hardware specs of the PC you want to install Linux on?
 
The_Librarian said:
The catch with ClarkConnect is that you need to register (for some functions eg dynamic dns) to work.

Also, when more than 5 users try to connect, it will be denied, and you'll have to upgrade your ClarkConnect license from free to commercial.
Click to expand...
NOT TRUE - Not according to my server installations.

Registration is free and only affects the amount of mail boxes your can use IF USED AS A MAIL SERVER. The limit is 10 on the community version.

Although Dynamic DNS does work, I turn it off during the registration process as I configure Dynamic DNS through the ADSL router itself, if required.

You can compare the editions here http://www.clarkconnect.com/info/compare.php

If you do want the full version with unlimited mail boxes it is $85 dollars a year ($85 = +/- R 685.00) so we are not talking expensive here.
 
Last edited:
Thanks for the responses guys (and gals?).
So it appears Linux of some kind will do what I need.
I don't like the idea of subscriptions etc as in ClarkConnect.
I've got a celeron 2.66 with 1.5GB ram to use.
 
Gamer said:
Thanks for the responses guys (and gals?).
So it appears Linux of some kind will do what I need.
I don't like the idea of subscriptions etc as in ClarkConnect.
I've got a celeron 2.66 with 1.5GB ram to use.
Click to expand...

Go clark, its simple stable and reliable and theres good support.

You will be required to know the basics of networking... but you are not required to know Linux.
 
Okay, didn't see the other posts before I posted. I'll look further into ClarkConnect if there really are no extra subs. Thanks.
 
The_Librarian said:
The catch with ClarkConnect is that you need to register (for some functions eg dynamic dns) to work.

Also, when more than 5 users try to connect, it will be denied, and you'll have to upgrade your ClarkConnect license from free to commercial.

What is the hardware specs of the PC you want to install Linux on?
Click to expand...

Try to connect how/where? File server limitation?
 
w1z4rd said:
Go clark, its simple stable and reliable and theres good support.

You will be required to know the basics of networking... but you are not required to know Linux.
Click to expand...

Okay, thanks.
Do those PC specs sound suitable?
Is ClarkConnect available to download from local server?
 
The_Librarian said:
GAH :o

apologies to all for misinformation.

got a head cold today, wasn't thinking straight.
Click to expand...

No worries.

FYI, Im installing an enterprise version of CC for a school today. Cant wait to see see how it handles multiple wans.
 
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