OWA: Is a Front End Server Necessary?

[Adams999]

I have Exchange 2003 running on a Windows 2003 Server (standard). Can I run OWA from this single server, or do I need to set up a second server as a front end?

 

[darren97]

Yes you can run

 

[Knutern]

A front end server is not mandatory. When you have numerous back end servers however, you should use a front end server too.

Cheers
Knutern

 

[Adams999]

Do I have to check the "This is a Front End Server" box on the General page of Server Properties? Are there any particular security considerations I need to attend to when not using a front end server?

 

[Knutern]

If you are going to use the server as front end, you do need to check "this is a front end server".

If your front end server is available from internet, make sure it has all the security updates available. Optional, use URLScan to tighten IIS on your front end server. But be careful with URLScan and OWA, you might experience that some e-mails can't be opened, and others can be while attachments contained in the e-mail can not be downloaded. This is due to the standard URLScan settings which you need to customize so it fits OWA use.

Cheers
Knutern

 

[Adams999]

Just to make sure I was clear enough. Were operating a single server network. Using only 1 server, do I need to make it a front end server to use OWA?

 

[achilleus]

It does not need to be a front end server to use OWA. As Knutern said, you should have a front end if you have more than one back end server.

I only have one back end, but still choose to have a front end OWA server for security reasons. I do not believe it is a good practice to make your back end Exchange server available to the internet.

Just my 2 cents.

AJ
SA
HS

 

[Adams999]

Can I use an old NT4 server as the front end to a Win2003 server domain? Recommendations for configuration?

 

[Knutern]

If you have a Exchange Server 2003 which you are going to use as back end server, then your front end needs to be Exchange Server 2003 too. And that singles out NT4 as underlying OS ;-)

Cheers
Knutern

 

[Adams999]

What's the least expensive option for setting up my front end server? Since I have the CD for 2003 Server should I just get another license? Is there a less expensive 2003 Server version that will work as a front end? Should I go with 2000 Server? Your help is much appreciated!