Using Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials

Using Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials is We Got Served's brand new guide to Microsoft's latest small business server platform. Fully updated and revised with coverage of the latest features and enhancements to the server platform, Using Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials guides readers step by step through installing, configuring and managing your organisation's IT needs, built on Microsoft's "hybrid cloud" platform.

Carefully illustrated with hundreds of colour screenshots, this 786 page eBook is designed to provide a friendly deep dive into the features and workings of Microsoft's server platform - no IT degree required! Written by Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals Terry Walsh and Jim Clark, the book guides you through your first few weeks with the server - you'll be walked step by step through the hardware you'll need, installing the Windows Server software, configuring user accounts and security settings, connecting and protecting your data on client PCs, mobile devices and Apple Macs.

You'll learn all about Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials' Anywhere Access features, setting up VPN and remote web access so your team can access their files, folders - even office PCs - when they're out on the road. If mobile devices are lost or stolen, you'll discover how to manage mobile devices securely, locking or even remote wiping your data so it's safe from prying eyes.

It's not just work, work, work! With a little help, you'll also be able to unlock powerful media features in the platform, opening up the possibility to stream music, video and photos across your organisation's local network, as well as to remote devices.

Finally, the book walks step by step through Microsoft's integrated cloud services offer. You'll learn all about managing Office 365 installations with Windows Server Essentials, backing up your client data to the cloud with Windows Azure Backup and managing your PC security policies and application updates with Windows Intune.

Whether you're considering the use of a server at home or for your small business, thinking about moving your small office IT infrastructure to the cloud, or simply want to find out more about Microsoft's "first server" platform, Using Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials is a simple, clear and comprehensive step by step guide - written by non-IT geeks, for non-IT geeks!

Chapter List

What's New in Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials?
Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials Installation Requirements
Install Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials
Choosing Off the Shelf Hardware
Introducing the Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials Dashboard
Connect Client PCs to Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials
Connect Apple Macs and Other Computers to the Server
Connect and Manage Mobile Devices to Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials
The Launchpad
A Trip Around the Dashboard
The Dashboard Home Tab
Managing Users, User Groups and Accounts
Managing Devices and Group Policy
Managing Hard Drives, Storage and Storage Spaces
Extending Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials With Add-ins
Remote Access
Enhancing Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials Media Support
Protect and Restore Your Data
Integrating Windows Azure Online Backup
Managing Office 365 Accounts With Windows Server 2012 R2 Essentials
Managing Client PCs With Windows Intune
Supporting Applications
Glossary