Multiple locations

[msteinblock]

I am working with a business that previously had a domain setup at one location. They recently started another location and would like to expand their network. Each location has PCs, and the owners have laptops they take back and forth. My original idea was setup a terminal server and let them remote into the single server. However, now I am running into problems with the user being able to save files on the server. Any recomendations how to setup a domain at two locations so that files can easily and quickly be accessed by both sides? Two separate servers set to sync those data folders on two servers? I already have a VPN setup between the locations.

 

[58sniper]

SBS at the "main" location. DC at "remote" location. Map drives to common share on "main" server.

Can you elaborate as to the problems you're having with saving files on server?

Pat Richard
Microsoft Exchange MVP

 

[msteinblock]

Thanks for the reply.

If I use a terminal server configuration, the remote users are unable to attach a thumbdrive or camera and save files onto the shared common folder.

The other problem, which will happen either way, is the speed issue of a common folder shared on a remote server. Accessing and using those files remotely is not feasable speed wise.

I think having two servers at two locations, with DFS in place syncing the common folders, it going to be a little more expensive that what they want to do. That is a lot of computing power for no more than we are tring to accomplish.

 

[58sniper]

Whether you setup a Terminal Services server at the main location, or a second server at the remote location with a shared file share at the main, the problem exists that the file is still going over the wire to the main location. However, you also have the bandwidth being used for the TS connection, not to mention the Windows AND TS licenses, and the added hardware needed for a TS box.

If it were me, a second DC in the remote location, with both running DFS is the best. You still have to invest in the hardware for the second server, but you don't have to fork out money for TS licenses. And if your SBS box is R2, the DFS is very good.

Pat Richard
Microsoft Exchange MVP

 

[markdmac]

I agree with Pat, use DFS to replicate the data between sites.

I hope you find this post helpful.

Regards,

Mark

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