Opinions on new purchase of exchange 2003

[tom11011]

Hi all, like to get your opinions on a new exchange 2003 setup.

We plan to purchase a server with dual processors and 4GB of ram. Does exchange 2003 make good use of a second processor? Also, any issues with 4GB of ram? Any special configuration recommendations?

Also, we are considering purchasing an anti-spam solution "GFI Mailessentials". I wanted to here your opinion on this product as well. We currently filter virus' already on a different gateway.

Any tips from those running Exchange 2003 would be appreciated.

 

[Zelandakh]

For that level of kit, you should have so many users that you don't need to ask these questions. DP/4GB should serve at least 500 users.

GFi is fantastic - search this forum.

<signature for rent>

 

[Rookcr]

Tom,

As far as memory there is a /#gb switch and a /Userva switch. I would start with microsoft KB article 815372.

How to Optimize Memory Usage in Exchange Server 2003.

As far as a mail filter I am not one to push products but I use a company called CMS Mail connect and they have a product called Praetor that I feel is easy to use and does a fantastic job as a virus & spam filter. I also use Symantecs gateway security as well.

Hope this is helpful.

Rook

 

[tom11011]

Thanks for your opinions.

What about a second processor? Does exchange use the second processor or is that a waste of money?

 

[Rookcr]

Tom,

I believe processor would be secondary to the exchange box. Exchange is a memory hog so the more memory you have the better off you are.

Rook

 

[tom11011]

Ok, but no larger than 4GB correct? Everything I've read says exchange won't effectively use more than 4GB.

 

[blubomber]

Tom,

How many users are you planning on supporting with the new exchange server? Also, if you are planning on installing the spam filter on the Exchange server also, that is another program that is going to be using up memory and processor time. Exchange is setup to take advantage of a multi-processor environment and if you are planning on using 4GB of RAM, then a second processor would not be a waste.

 

[tom11011]

Hi, we will be supporting 200 users. We plan on installing gfi mail essentials on the same server.

Just want to make sure I am buying the appropriate equipment.