Ensure Windows 2003 Routing

Windows 2003 happily enables you to insert two or more NICs or other devices that can carry network traffic - such as modems, ISDN boxes, or even Channel Service Unit/Data Service Units (CSU/DSUs) for high-speed digital networking. Doubling up on NICs (or the other network traffic devices listed) allows Windows 2003 to move traffic from one connection to another. This capability, known as routing , enables Windows 2003 to connect separate pieces of a network.

The most exposed and important part of many networks is the link that ties a local network to the Internet (or at least, to your local Internet Service Provider). If Windows 2003 fills that role on your network, be prepared to perform regular troubleshooting rituals to keep this all-important link to the outside world running.

If you can, you should isolated this function on a separate computer. This is a good idea for two reasons:

• Adding the burden of routing traffic and managing an Internet interface requires additional software and services that can tax a (possibly over-burdened) Windows Server 2003.

• You should limit the impact of system failure to as few services as possible. Chances are that your users will be less unhappy if they lose only Internet access or only access to shared files and applications, rather than losing both at the same time.

Tip 

If you do use a Windows Server 2003 system as a router, especially if an Internet link is involved, think about installing firewall software, such as Microsoft's Proxy Server or Ositis Software's WinProxy, on that machine. A firewall protects your network from interlopers and allows you to monitor and filter incoming (and outgoing) content and information.