In an effort to cater to the SMB market, Microsoft rolled out Windows Small Business Server (SBS) 2003.
For the first time, SBS will have two flavours to offer customers to meet different needs. SBS 2003 is a package of servers aimed at companies with up to 75 PCs and built around Windows Server
2003.
Pamela Lauz, Microsoft Canada’s product manager for Small Business Server, said the resellers should welcome the two-edition strategy for SBS, noting it will allow partners to go to customers with different offerings to suit needs. For example, smaller firms may not need a database, she said.
VARs will also like features such as SBS 2003’s remote access abilities, which not only allow customers’ staff to access their systems off-site via a browser, but also allow integrators to manage those systems as well.
Barrie, Ont.-based reseller Interprom Computer Technologies spokesman Gavin Steiner said SBS will give his business “”repeatable services”” as well as a chance to make money on the maintenance side by offering remote monitoring for a fixed price. “”With monitoring and maintaining on a monthly basis, they (customers) know they are being taken care of.””
The remote support options are an attractive selling point for small businesses, he added. “”It’s one of the things my clients are looking for — to not be locked to a desk makes for a happier employer.””
The premium edition contains SQL Server 2000, Internet Security and Acceleration Server, Front Page 2000 and five licences costs.