The NOS runs on the server and provides all the functions needed to coordinate between users and to keep the network running. Microsoft BackOffice is a suite of networking programs consisting of Windows NT and other components that are essential to a business. It comes in two different flavors: BackOffice and BackOffice Small Business Server. Look at our NOS Conceptual Diagram.

Microsoft BackOffice based on Windows NT Server

Here are some of the key functions performed by the different software components found in BackOffice:

• File Server Software - The most basic of server functions. Drives that appear to be local to the desktop computer actually reside on the server. The server is the safest place to store data and this data is regularly backed up to tape. With proper network design, a desktop computer can crash with no loss of user files.
• Print Server Software- Printers that appear local to the desktop computer are actually connected directly into the network and are controlled by the server.
• Security - A very important server function. Manages access to network data folders and printers at the user level. Every user must log on to the network with a user name and password to gain access to shared network resources. Users are placed into groups based on the level of access to be granted to them. The groups are granted or denied access to resources on the server. This will be set up as part of the installation.
• Exchange Server Software- Manages e-mail both internal, between users on the local network, and external, between local users and the outside world. supports desktop features such as shared calendars, shared contact lists, and workgroup applications based on Microsoft Outlook. One example of a workgroup application is a purchase order working its way electronically from the requestor to multiple people who review and authorize or reject the request and finally to the purchasing agent - the paperless solution.
• Internet Information Server (IIS) Software- The component that serves up web pages to browsers. An intranet can be set up where all the browsers are local users accessing company data (benefit plans, company policy, etc.). If the server is a high end server with guaranteed up time and a permanent Internet connection is available (see Internet Access below), then the company may choose to host its World Wide Web site on the in-house server as opposed to using a web hosting service.
• RAS (Remote Access Service) Software- Allows dial-up access to the server from home or while on the road. Selected users dial modems on the server and, after authenticating themselves via user name and password, gain access to the server as though they were in the office. Security is fully enforced for dial-up users.
• Proxy Server Software- The component that puts the Internet at every desktop without the need for every desktop computer to have a modem and an Internet access account. Proxy server takes web access requests from all users on the network and makes the request on their behalf though one Internet access account (for more details see Internet Access below). It can also be programmed to filter access to sites on a user-by-user basis and keeps a log of all accesses.
• SQL Server Software- A full-featured database server. Applications written in Microsoft Access or similar programs can be converted to store the data in an SQL data source on the server. Essential in providing web browser access to corporate data stored on the server.

Microsoft BackOffice Small Business Server

This is essentially the BackOffice product with the following differences:

• Lower cost. The product will support up to 50 users. If the network grows to more than 50 users, the software must be upgraded to the regular version of BackOffice.
• Cannot be added to an existing Windows NT network.
• Comes with a lightweight Network Faxing component that is described below.