Windows Server 2003 - why is it better to set up a domain rather than a workgroup?

Question

Windows Server 2003 - why is it better to set up a domain rather than a workgroup?

Answer 1

A domain allows you to control security centrally. That's not possible with a workgroup model.



In a workgroup model you need to set up duplicate accounts on every machine and keep the passwords synchronized. That's a royal pain in the @$$.



In a workgroup model, SQL security is nearly impossible to enforce.



A workgroup is OK for 2 - 3 users and no servers. As soon as you add a server, you need a domain to control things properly.

Answer 2

A domain will allow you more security and control of the client computers. There are alot of settings to take advantage of under a domain. Plus its more secure and easily scaleable if your organisation grows. One thing to consider, if you do choose a domain, make sure the client computers operating systems will be able to utilize a domain. Windows XP home cannot. Windows XP Pro, Windows 2000 Pro can. Hope this helps.



Kevin

Answer 3

To start with they are correct, do not use server 2003! Get the small business version. The simple version goes, that in a workgroup environment you need to set up an account on each computer for each user. These accounts are stored in something called a SAM "Security Account Manager" on the local machine. A domain is like making the whole group of computers one. You set up the accounts on the server in the active directory. This way everyone can log on to any computer in the domain to gain access to network resources. Also any changes to a user account can be made in one place, the domain controller. You don’t need to go to each machine. Simply it centralizes control of your network. This control can be simple or very complex depending on your requirements.

Answer 4

Before purchasing Windows Server 2003, or opening the package if you've already made the purchase....



Return the product and run (don't walk) over to Windows Small Business Server 2003.



You'll get more bang for the buck... 5 CALs, Exchange Server, Outlook, Enhanced Security, Remote Management & administration and a host of other goodies!



Your boss will love you for it and so will your users.



Best of all, the time spent on setup and routine administrative tasks will be cut in half.



Personal Experiences: With 250 SBS installs (Nov. 2005 - Dec.2006), not one single complaint. I can review my client's server logs remotely without ever leaving the office. Recently even connected to a user's WinXP Pro and repaired it without ever leaving Starbucks.



It doesn't get any slicker than that...



Check out the product: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/sbs/default.mspx

Answer 5

I echo what Bostonian said. Even though you've only got 4 client computers, you need a domain because you have a server AND because you're using SQL.

Answer 6

First, using Server 2003 for this small business is a mistake. You should be using Small Business Server 2003. It can accomodate up to 75 users (plenty for growth) and comes with lots of bells and whistles built in that 2003 Standard does not. (Including SQL in the Premium version). Here are the advantages of a domain.

1. File and network security. You simply cannot properly secure files in a workgroup. With a domain, you can get extremely granular in the files that are shared, who can access them, modify them, etc. With SQL, security is virtually impossible without a domain.

2. Active Directory. Enough cannot be said about this tool. It manages users, computers, printers and other devices... sets permissions, authenticates... it can be as simple or as complex as you wish to make it.

3. Group policy. You can ensure that all computers are up to date with the latest patches, etc. You can ensure that all have up to date virus protection. You can create logon scripts to map drives, share resources, etc. You can manage security, password policies, remote access policies, etc. Instead of managing each computer and user, you can manage them all as groups from one location.

4. Exchange. You can host your own e-mail, share calendars, access your e-mail, files and information from anywhere with any computer.

5. Routing and remote access. You can control who, where and when users can access your network remotely. Feeling sick? Remote web workplace lets you work at home just as productively as you could at the office. But Joe, who is a bit untrustworthy, can't download sensitive data to his home computer... ever.

6. Sharepoint services. A central location for sharing information with your workers, clients or prospective customers.



This is just scratching the surface. Asking the difference between a domain and a workgroup is like asking the difference between a biplane and a 747. Both will get you where you want to go... eventually. But in terms of comfort, convenience and additional features there is absolutely no comparison.