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Applies To: Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials

After the computer is connected to Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials, you can access the server by using the Launchpad.

For information about connecting your computer to the server, see Connect Computers to the Server.

Launchpad

The Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials Launchpad is a small application that is installed on a home computer by the person who manages Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials. You can use the Launchpad to start and stop computer backups, access shared folders, and log on to Remote Web Access. The Launchpad also provides real-time information and notifications about the health of the computer.

• What is the Launchpad?

• What is the Launchpad for a Mac?

Backup

Unexpected events, such as viruses, hardware failures, natural disasters, user error, power outages, and theft, can cause partial or total data loss. Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials provides a reliable way to perform regular home computer backups to storage drives on the server.

For more information, see Use Backup and Restore.

Remote Web Access

When you are away from home, you can open a web browser and navigate to Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials Remote Web Access. Using your browser and Remote Web Access, you can:

• Access shared files and folders.

• Access the server and computers on the network.

For more information, see Use Remote Web Access.

Shared Folders

By sharing folders, everyone on the network can access the data that is in those folders.

For more information, see Share Files and Folders.