Topic: what is SME

[stampmagnet]

I am very new when it comes to SME Server, I know it is a build off CentOS but can someone explain to me what are the differences?

[Stefano]

many, too many..

please read here: http://wiki.contribs.org/Main_Page

[stampmagnet]

i read it but it all seems to me is that the interface is a web one that's all. does that mean you install and setup software through the web interface as well? is that the main difference between SME and CentOS?

[crazybob]

It is a server without any kind of gui other than the web interface. It also has a command line interface where most additional software is installed. Due to the structure, most linux software needs to be tweeked to operate with SME.
The big advantage I find using SME is stability and security. It is like a rock.
Check out the links to the documentation on the wiki page. Read it more than once 

[janet]

stampmagnet

SME is a fully preconfigured version of CentOS with all services installed & enabled (or ready to be enabled via GUI), and after a fairly quick CD install it is ready to go out of the box in it's designated full server role (refer write ups for functional feature list "out of the box").
It also has a purpose specific server GUI manager panel, but also has a text based server manager.
It can be controlled by novice admins using the GUI panel, or via command line for more competent users, or where additional functionality or tweaking of settings is required (ie beyond those offered in server manager).
The other neat feature(s) is the templating & db system which allows easy change of settings, and quick restoration to default values.
SME could be called "an easy to use CentOS" for the equivalent roles.
Did you also read
http://wiki.contribs.org/SME_Server:About
and
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2010/11/17/review_sme_server/