Topic: New server

[Paspv]

We have a small company and we need a new server. The disk space of the current server (with SME 7.5.1) is not enough and another hard disk is not an option since this is the maximum according to the specifications of the server.

Is it a good idea to install the new server direct with SME 8 b6 or is it better to stay with 7.5.1? We use it as a gateway, fileserver and vpn. We don't use much contribs (or programs) at the moment, I don't think that will be a problem.

If we install SME 8, are there difficulties to expect when it's finally released? Is it changing the repos or are there more things, which possibly could cause trouble?

TIA.

Patrick

[brianr]

Quite a few of us are running 8.0b6 as production servers, I think I have 3 or 4!

You do need to be a bit more "aware" of what is going on here though, just in case.

[thoriq]

Hello passv,
It depens on ur req.....

[chris burnat]

If we install SME 8, are there difficulties to expect when it's finally released? Is it changing the repos or are there more things, which possibly could cause trouble?

There should be no problem upgrading from the current beta 6 to beta 7 (already tested and just about to be released).  Nor should there be any issues updating to RC1 or final release of version 8, the Devs will see to this.  When you install version 8, new repos are being used, it is all transparent to you, so no problems.   Version 7 is still in beta, meaning that there is a small element of risk associated with using this software for production, so you are being warned, no responsibilities taken...  This being said, many of us are now running 8b6 in production environments rather than version 7 which is a little outdated when it comes to new hardware. I do it, and I am prepared to wear the risk. If you decide to go with version 8, keep an eye on the Forums and perhaps Bugzilla as well. And check the Devinfo list from time to time, this way you will be fully informed of issues.

[purvis]

Paspv
I can appreciate your issues. Changes just occur in equipment that sometimes forces a change.
If you are happy with the performance of the current vpn and gateway.
It might be best to just setup another file server with sme 8.6b and move your large files and older files over to a newly created server.
The newer computers have a lot of performance enhancements in equipment that will server your files faster and take a large work load off the current gateway server.
I appreciate the recommendations of others from above as well.
I have also added additional internet ip addresses(cheap to add additional ip address to most isp services) to a single DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with gigabit connections and with a gigabit switch that connects your servers that allows for other networks and testing. You could access the additonal servers directly from internal equipment.
I would suppose you could run another vpn on the additional network server or an additional gateway/vpn connection.
I do not run vpn on my servers, but i would think you could have double or more gateways/vpns.
   

[Paspv]

Thank you all for your answers! We've ordered a new server and when it's delivered i'll put 8b6 on it to test it. We have some space on the current server left so we have time before it's necessary to change the server.