SBS and Terminal Server

[scottew]

I know it probably isn't the ideal configuration, but can SBS also be a Terminal Server.

Thanks in advance!

 

[TechCarnivore]

I believe you can add another server to the network and have that system provide terminal services.

This is from the Microsoft website.

The Terminal Services in Application Mode component of Microsoft® Windows Server™ 2003 operating system can deliver the Windows desktop from a centralized server to virtually any desktop computing device. This component is not available in Windows Small Business Server 2003.

Improved security, an expressed desire of all customers, was the key reason for deactivating the ability to run Terminal Services in application server mode on a server running Windows Small Business Server 2003. Running Terminal Services on a domain controller may present a security risk to the network by creating the potential for denial of service attacks against Active Directory® directory service or other server application components. Windows Server 2003 and Windows Small Business Server 2003 are more secure by default than previous versions and this change was one of a number of enhancements to the overall security of the server and network.

 

[ShackDaddy]

Right. SBS cannot function as a Terminal Server.

Your best bet is to take an existing Windows XP workstation and turn it into the equivalent of a terminal server using WinConnect Server XP:

http://www.thinsoftinc.com/product_thin_client_winconnect_server_xp.aspx

It's a great solution! I've deployed it in three situations now, and it's performed well as long as enough RAM is installed. Costs $300.

ShackDaddy

 

[TechSoEasyMVP]

Knowing what the "best bet" is would require knowing more about your needs. The ThinSoft WinConnect solution can be quite costly because while the software itself costs $300.00 if you use it for more than a single session on a Windows XP machine you would be violating XP's EULA if you did not aquire additional XP licenses.

You most definitely CAN add an additional server to run Terminal Services (see

http://sbsurl.com/sbstss),

and you can also use Virtual Server 2005 to add an additional Terminal Server or instances of Windows XP to your SBS itself (

http://sbsurl.com/vs).

Virtual Server allows for multiple instances of XP (which again have to be licensed separately) and is free.

However, you may not need this at all if what you are wanting is for users that have workstations in the office to be able to connect from a remote location to work. This is because SBS includes Remote Web Workplace which makes it quite easy for you to allow users to connect to their desktops in the office. (see

http://sbsurl.com/rwwppt)

Finally, there is a complete overview of many remote options for SBS here:

http://sbsurl.com/remote

Jeff
TechSoEasy