HP D7171A - NetServer - LPr Applications page 5

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Infrastructure (Internet/Intranet) Server
Servers can fill several roles in the information technology infrastructure of an organization. In
an enterprise that uses the Internet, a proxy server is a server that acts as an intermediary
between a workstation user and the Internet so that the enterprise can ensure security,
administrative control, and can provide a caching service. A proxy server is associated with or
is a part of a gateway server that separates the enterprise network from the outside network
and a firewall server that protects the enterprise network from outside intrusion.
CPU speed and power is necessary to support the look-up and firewall requests in a timely
fashion. Adequate memory is required to cache addresses.
Messaging, communication and collaboration (clients with low storage requirements)
Servers form the backbone of a variety of communication methods, including electronic mail,
telephone and fax systems. Electronic mail services have become an important aspect of work
in most organizations. Disk input/output is the primary bottleneck in a messaging system, as
messages are cataloged and stored. Telephone and voice mail systems also require server
support, especially for message storage. Directory information services can also reside on a
server that provides access for all users connected to the system. Collaboration is the process
of teams working together on projects whereby the files are developed and edited together. A
server system can act as both the repository and transfer point for these efforts.
Ameren Corporation, a mid-Western power utilities company, employs HP NetServer LPrs as
communication servers in the customer call center. Configured as SMP with mirrored hard
drives, the servers support remote dial-in/dial-out access that allows the call center employees
to work from home via ISDN lines, providing a virtual staff that is available to meet high demand
from customers. Ameren also uses HP NetServer LPrs as file-and-print servers, application
servers and directory services controllers.
Thin client/Server-based Computing
Microsoft Windows Terminal Server is a Windows NT 4.0 server extension that creates a multi-
user environment where all users share the hardware and software resource on the terminal
server machine (see Figure 2). Applications are run on the server, and even the graphical user
interface (GUI) is server-resident, pushed to the clients. Microsoft Windows NT Server Terminal
Server Edition supports a full range of clients from legacy personal computers to the new and
cost effective "thin clients".
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