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Chapter 2. The role of the SME Server V5
Your SME Server V5 with ServiceLink manages your connection to the Internet by routing Internet data packets to and from your
network (which allows all the computers on your network to share a single Internet connection) and by providing security for your
network, minimizing the risk of intrusions.
When one of your local computers contacts the Internet, or is contacted by an outside machine on the Internet, the SME Server V5
with ServiceLink not only routes that connection, but seamlessly interposes itself into the communication. This prevents a direct
connection from being established between an external computer on the Internet and a computer on your local network thereby
significantly reducing the risk of intrusion onto your network.
Your server also provides services - including e-mail, web access and a powerful file sharing and collaboration feature called "i-bays"
- that allow you to communicate better internally and with the rest of the world using the Internet.
Throughout this user’s guide, the word gateway is used to mean the computer that acts as the interface between your local, internal
network and the external world.
If you prefer, you can also run your SME Server V5 with ServiceLink in "server-only" mode. In "server-only" mode, your server
provides your network with services, but not the routing and security functions associated with the role of "gateway". The
server-only mode is typically used for networks already behind a firewall. In that configuration, the firewall fulfills the role of
gateway, providing routing and network security.
Once installed, your SME Server V5 with ServiceLink can be configured and managed remotely. Routine administration is handled
from your desktop using a web-based interface, so only on rare occasions will you require direct access to the server computer. Once
installation is complete, most customers put the server in an out-of-the-way place like a utility closet. If you wish, you can
disconnect the keyboard and monitor. (Note that some computers may not operate correctly without an attached keyboard.)
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