Yet Another Server Question

[mkleive]

I need to upgrade from Server 2003 R2 as it won't be supported 9 months from now. My current server machine is a 3 year old Dell T310. I am conflicted as to an upgrade to 2008 R2 or 2012 Server Essentials. Because I have 13 computers in the office I'm even considering a workgroup arrangement. The use of bitlocker or similar is really my only requirement.

From those on the forum who are savvy in this area what do you recommend?

[KevinRossen]

The only thing you really need a "Server" for is to manage a domain and the extra bells and whistles that come with that flavor of Windows. We have 17 computers in our office and at this point I probably wouldn't get a "server" as it's more work to manage than it's really worth.

[mkleive]

Kevin,

Maybe I could ask the question differently: Being that I already own the hardware and I need a computer to function as the main database for OD, Apteryx and Sidexis, do I continue to utilize a domain with 2008 R2 or 2012 Essentials or just create a workgroup? The time is running out on Server 2003 R2.

[jsalmon]

This is not the opinion of Open Dental, this is just my personal opinion from my experiences with both OS:
I would go with Server 2012. It's quick and light on its feet. The only frustrating part is the fact that they moved things around (yet again). Once you get used to the layout it's a relatively pleasant experience. Whether or not you utilize a domain or workgroup is completely up to you. Either work fine with Open Dental. It's just a matter of how much control you want over what goes on in the workplace network wise.

However, you definitely need to read up on your other softwares to make sure they support the newer OS. That will be the quickest way to determine which you should go with.

[willcipriano]

I can recommend 2012 r2, we use it and it doesn't give any problems.