Top Windows Server Essentials Alternatives for Your Small Business
Windows Server Essentials, formerly known as Windows Small Business Server, has long been a go-to solution for small businesses seeking an affordable and user-friendly server environment. Designed for up to 25 users and 50 devices, it provided essential features like centralized file sharing, client backups, and remote access. However, as business needs evolve and the desire for more flexible, open-source, or specialized solutions grows, many are now searching for a robust Windows Server Essentials alternative. This article explores some of the best options available to help you find the perfect fit for your organization.
Top Windows Server Essentials Alternatives
Whether you're looking for a cost-effective open-source solution, a powerful Linux-based server, or a specialized messaging platform, there are numerous excellent alternatives to Windows Server Essentials. Let's dive into some of the top contenders:
Zentyal
Zentyal is a compelling Free and Open Source Linux-based alternative that offers a native Microsoft Active Directory implementation. It provides all the essential network services required for small and medium businesses, including robust file sharing, gateway functionalities, and a comprehensive email server. Its Linux foundation makes it a secure and flexible choice for those looking to move away from Windows-centric environments.
ClearOS
ClearOS is another excellent Free and Open Source Linux-based operating system designed for various environments, from enterprises to small businesses and homes. It stands out as a strong Windows Server Essentials alternative by offering features such as an email server, database capabilities, gateway services, and a web server, all managed through a convenient web-based interface. Its versatility and open-source nature make it a highly adaptable solution.
Univention Corporate Server
Univention Corporate Server (UCS) is a powerful, Open Source platform that serves as an excellent Windows Server Essentials alternative for mixed IT infrastructures. Built on Debian, it supports Linux, Windows, and Mac OS X clients. UCS offers extensive features like Active Directory authentication and integration, DHCP and DNS management, Single Sign-On, LDAP services, and support for Docker, making it a highly scalable and flexible choice for managing server applications and IT environments.
Windows Server 2012
For those who prefer to stay within the Microsoft ecosystem but need a more robust or specialized solution than Windows Server Essentials, Windows Server 2012 is a Commercial Windows-based alternative. While still a Windows product, it offers advanced features like Active Directory integration, data deduplication, and enhanced virtualization capabilities, providing a more comprehensive server operating system for growing businesses.
MDaemon Messaging Server
MDaemon Messaging Server is a Commercial Windows-based option that stands out for businesses primarily focused on email and communication. It's a low-cost, user-friendly email server software that can be deployed virtually, on-premise, or hosted. Key features include integrated web-mail, Dropbox integration, encrypted email, group chat, IMAP support, mobile device management, and Outlook integration, making it a strong contender for companies wanting full control over their email infrastructure.
Untangle
Untangle, a Freemium Linux-based platform, focuses on network security and application deployment. While not a direct server OS replacement, it can serve as a crucial component for small businesses seeking to enhance their network infrastructure beyond what Windows Server Essentials offers. Features like ad blocking, gateway services, VPN, and web filtering make it an excellent addition for securing and managing network traffic.
Amahi Home Server
Amahi Home Server is a Free and Open Source solution designed with ease of use in mind, perfect for home and small office environments without dedicated IT staff. Compatible with Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS, it offers a broad range of features including Nextcloud integration, backup solutions, dynamic DNS, file sharing, and media streaming. Its user-friendly approach makes it a viable Windows Server Essentials alternative for less complex needs.
macOS Server
For businesses heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, macOS Server is a Commercial Mac-based alternative that transforms your Mac into a powerful server. It's remarkably easy to install and provides essential server functionalities like backup and virtualization, making it a seamless transition for existing Mac users looking for a straightforward server solution for their small business, home office, or school.
Windows Server 2019
Continuing in the Microsoft family, Windows Server 2019 is a Commercial Windows-based operating system built on the robust foundation of Windows Server 2016. While not specifically branded as an Essentials edition, it provides the core server capabilities for larger small businesses that have outgrown the limits of Windows Server Essentials or need more advanced Windows Server features and continued Microsoft support.
Artica
Artica is a Free and Open Source Linux-based solution that provides a comprehensive web-based administration interface for various services. It leverages Postfix, Squid, and Samba to offer email/messaging, HTTP proxy, file server, and VPN capabilities. Its focus on easy and quick deployment of these essential services makes it a flexible and powerful Windows Server Essentials alternative for businesses seeking a tailored, open-source approach to network management.
Choosing the right Windows Server Essentials alternative depends entirely on your specific business requirements, technical expertise, and budget. Whether you prioritize open-source flexibility, advanced security, specialized messaging, or staying within a familiar operating system, the options above provide a strong starting point for finding the best server solution to power your small business.