Review: Small-business server bake-off

BACKUP

Winner: Nitix

2nd: Xandros

3rd: Microsoft

4th: Novell

Backing up data is critical for today's small businesses. For backups to be successful, the technology must be foolproof and reliable.

This is one area where Microsoft is still lacking. The integrated backup included with SBS 2003 proves to be just adequate at best. Microsoft relies on a combination of the company's shadow-copy technology and a file-by-file backup methodology to protect data.

Recovering from a disaster can be a harrowing experience. First, VARs must reinstall the basic SBS 2003 operating system, configure their backup device and then go through a lengthy restore.

Nitix has the backup problem licked with its SystemER disaster-recovery module. SystemER allows users to restore a complete Nitix environment in a mater of minutes. What's more, the company offers an automated backup process that can back up the system every 15 minutes, with no hands-on intervention necessary.

Novell has eschewed including an integrated backup into its Open
WorkGroup Suite. Those considering using the product for small businesses should consider an add-on backup application to properly protect their data.

Xandros relies on the third-party BRUBackup Server. BRU offers open file support, remote backup device support and full automation. What's more, Xandros includes six licenses for the product.

REMOTE ACCESS

Winner: Microsoft

2nd: Nitix

3rd: Novell

4th: Xandros

For the traveling worker, remote access is key. Microsoft has included RWW (Remote Web Workplace) with SBS 2003, which enables remote users to not only access their email and calendars, but also control their desktop systems. Microsoft's offering proves to be the next best thing to being there.

Not to be left out of the game, Nitix has also covered remote-access capabilities. Although they don't boast the same level of integration as Microsoft, solution providers have available all of the necessary pieces to build a remote-access solution. The same can be said for Novell and Xandros.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Test Centre engineers found that Nitix is a viable, cost-conscious alternative to SBS 2003. What's more, Net Integration focuses on VARs and integrators, excluding retailers in its go-to-market strategy. That is attractive for VARs, given Microsoft's embrace of retailers.

In a market where VARs are looking for margin-rich alternatives, Nitix is the clear choice.

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