No-Nonsense Home Server: A Resource for Small and Home-Based Businesses

In the past, large businesses have used servers as central hubs for computer files. Different employees could easily work with the same file without having to worry about transferring new versions of each file. Even better, a server makes working off-site much easier because it allows employees to securely access files back in the office. These benefits aren't limited to big businesses anymore, though. The cost of servers has dropped, especially for those designed with small business or home-use in mind. Additionally, the software used to operate a server has been simplified so you no longer need a full IT team to get it up and operating.

The Pros

Of smaller servers on the market, the Acer Aspire easyStore Home Server proves particularly useful in a small office setting. As far as servers go, the easyStore model takes a minimalist approach. The designers focused on simplifying the server's setup for common tasks: sharing files between different computers and media systems, backing up crucial data, and remotely accessing information. The server uses the Microsoft Windows Home Server operating system, making those three primary tasks essentially automatic (meaning minimal technical skills required). Backing up your main computer is as simple as pressing one button.

The Cons

Of course, the focus on making the Acer Aspire easyStore Home Server easy-to-use can be a drawback for some users. If you're looking for a server capable of doing some heavy lifting, you'll probably need to look at some of Acer's heftier models. There's an additional negative to the easyStore Home Server, as well. It works only with PCs. So, if anyone in your organization works on a Mac, that person will not be able to access the server.

The Specs

The technical specifications for this server make it clear that this is a reliable unit. It comes with a hard drive offering one terabyte of storage, as well as two gigs of RAM that will allow you to access files quickly and easily. The system is easy to upgrade if you find yourself in need of more storage. It offers three heard drive bays, which means you could easily up your storage capabilities to seven terabytes if need be - enough to maintain a daily backup routine to protect your computers from data loss. You can find reliable hard drives with a terabyte of storage for under $100 through many online vendors. The Acer Aspire easyStore Home Server also has five USB ports, which allow you to plug multiple computers directly in to the server and back them up immediately - a particularly useful feature if members of your office rely on laptops or other systems particularly sensitive to damage or loss.

If you work with an office virtually, the Acer Aspire easyStore Home Server can centralize files easily, eliminating any need to email different versions back and forth. It comes with a six-month free trial of McAfee Total Protection Service, which will provide basic security for your server if you and your colleagues will be accessing files from remote locations. If you work with particularly sensitive files, it may be worth upgrading to a stronger security system. The same holds true if you intend to offer multiple clients access to files on your server, which may be a practical option if you're a virtual assistant or routinely need to share large files.

The Acer Aspire easyStore Home Server is priced at $399.99, while similar systems from companies such as HP come in closer to $499 or even $599 depending on which vendor you purchase it through. The system provides a solid backup and data-sharing option at a price practical for small businesses or even individuals.