Windows 2008 Server setup

FIRST General Forum
1

We were lucky enough to have someone donate an older HP Proliant server with a clean 2008R2 Server install.

I’m looking for someone that can help with the configuration and getting it up and running, we would like to use it to host and server our CAD files as well as become a repository for pictures/videos etc…

I am located in Menlo Park, CA, therefore I’m looking for someone around me that can come help us in person.

Thank you
Kelly M.
Head Mentor Team 766

2

If you want to share files between computers that are on the same network, it is very easy. All you need to do is create a shared folder. For a tutorial, look at this video.

3

I plan on hosting the server at my house off site from the school so that we can access the CAD files off site from the school.

Therefore the computers accessing the server will be on different networks.

Kelly

4

I have server 2008 running for web hosting. You will either need a static WAN ip, or use DDNS such as dyndns. You will also need to open and forward the needed ports through your router. Port 80 is HTTP, 443 is HTTPS, 20-21 for FTP server. You need to add the IIS role to the server, along with the needed addins for ASP.net, etc. let me know if you need any assistance. :smiley:

5

Be sure to check the terms of use for ISP; mine (COX AZ) does not allow any servers (web, ftp, etc) without express permission, or upgrading to an expensive business plan. I wouldn’t want to suddenly have to explain to my parents why the Internet cut out…

Which CAD package are you using?

  • If it is Autodesk, have fun. I have no experience with Autodesk.
  • If it is SolidWorks, installation is easy. Pop in the SolidWorks Disc (probably the x64 one), and run the installation and select server products (will use up an activation). Make sure all computers where SolidWorks is installed have the Server components installed from the disk, as they are not installed by default! I sincerely hope you have a really fast internet connection, as SolidWorks is SLOW to load and save parts otherwise. Their server software was designed to be used over a LAN (local).
  • If it is Creo, then don’t worry about a CAD PDM on your own server, PTC provides a Windchill project for your team for storing CAD parts and photos and documents! Fully integraged with both SolidWorks and PTC Creo. I like the UI much better than the SolidWorks PDM’s interface.https://firstrobotics.ptc.com/Windchill/

Make sure you have .NET 3.5 and up installed. (when you configure server roles, this option should be presented)

If web hosting, or running a package like Mediawiki, Drupal, etc.

  • If going the ASP.net route, install the webserver role
  • If going PHP route, make sure to have apache, mysql, php5, and any other goodies installed and up to date.

And the usual. Make sure you want to pay for all the power a 24/7 server will require. Your server looks quite power hungry. Don’t forget adequate cooling. Good luck and have fun. Maintaining a server can be a very educational and rewarding experience!