Understanding server tools

Microsoft® Windows® Small Business Server 2003 includes two preconfigured management consoles that centralize network administration: Server Management and Server Management for Power Users. The two consoles enable you to manage the server and the network both locally and remotely, while delegating basic tasks to an onsite power user.

Server Management

Server Management is designed for members of the Domain Admins security group. It contains the necessary snap-ins, query nodes, and tools for complete daily management. It also includes an Advanced Management section, which contains tools specific to other Windows operating systems but not to Windows Small Business Server 2003.

In the console tree, you can navigate the snap-in structure and access tools from either the menu bar or right-click menus. Depending on the snap-in, the details pane might contain taskpads, HTML files, or Active Server Pages. From the details pane, you can access tools by clicking task links or using right-click menus. Many links start wizards that fully or partially automate common management tasks, such as adding users and groups, and connecting to the Internet.

In addition to snap-ins, Server Management contains query nodes. A query node performs a search in Active Directory for a specified object, such as users. This query is then saved, or persisted, so that you do not have to manually enter it each time. The associated taskpads for each query node display a full or filtered list of these objects in addition to task links.

Server Management for Power Users

Server Management for Power Users is designed for members of the Power Users group. You can easily delegate basic management tasks, such as adding users and groups, resetting passwords, or clearing printer queues, to users working with this console. Users of this console are prevented from deleting objects, such as users or computers. It is a task-oriented console with only management taskpads in the details pane. The console tree is hidden, preventing users from navigating the snap-in structure of the console.