What Is a File Server — And Why It Is Important to All Businesses

If you have a business with several employees, you would also need multiple computer units for each employee to use. Also, your business should also invest in choosing good file server solutions. But first, you need to know what to look for in a file server and learn more about how it works.

What does a file server do?

A file server connects multiple computers that are attached to a network and created to store files in a single storage network. File servers can be accessed through Windows or other local intranet and also the internet via hypertext transfer protocols (HTTP) and file transfer protocols (FTP).

As mentioned, the main purpose of a file server is storing files from multiple computers. There are also two major types of file servers: dedicated and non-dedicated. The former refers to a specific server that is meant to handle a large workload for a larger computer network. This is a typical setup for larger businesses and organizations.

In addition, a dedicated file server can do more than file storage. Among other tasks that it can do include providing cooling systems, security including limited access to specific files and the like, and featuring software in a specific server operating system.

The latter, on the other hand, is not used exclusively as a file server. Rather, it can also be used for other purposes, including as a workstation. This type of file server is more applicable for residential or for small-scale businesses.

Nonetheless, having a file server can be a good investment for your business. Not only can it help you save money from spending on various hard drives but also make your workstation more organized and centralized.

Other benefits of file servers

Here are the other benefits of getting a file server, especially for your business.

1. Files can be accessed remotely.

Thanks to file servers, you can be able to access the information or data you need remotely. This can help a lot, especially if you need to access data from a remote location or even if the employee assigned to a computer workstation is absent. However, check first if the file is not locked. Otherwise, you would have to ask for the specific employee to send the file to you immediately.

2. It makes your workstation more organized and centralized.

You can control who can view and edit files when necessary, thanks to file servers. It also helps in organizing all of your company files instead of them spread on various PC units. If there are confidential files that should only be accessed by top management, you can control that as well.

3. It ensures data security.

Hard drives can be prone to damage and corruption, and so can be PC hard disks. This means disaster for your business. With file servers, you can secure your files and ensure that these important files have a backup to avoid the worst-case scenario.

These are some of the best reasons why businesses should invest in a good file server. Not only can it secure essential data and other business information but also make your workstation organized and be able to monitor usage more.