Hey everyone! I'm seeking advice on a small project I'm working on. My father-in-law runs a metalworking company where he and my girlfriend are currently using software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and EZ CAD 2 on separate machines. He's looking to set up a local server or workstation that they can both access remotely via Remote Desktop, with all the necessary software installed in one place. My initial thought was to establish a workstation in the workshop and enable remote access through a VPN along with Remote Desktop solutions. However, I want to avoid cloud services like AWS or Azure due to cost concerns for a small business. Given these details, what do you think would be the best setup for them? What technologies or tools should I consider for the implementation? Thanks in advance!
3 Answers
If they're already using their individual workstations, you need to consider why they want a shared setup. If it's just to access files, a networked file server or cloud solution could work better. Setting up a single RDS with necessary CALs for Remote Desktop Services could be costly and complex without the right setup. Don’t overlook the potential for future growth; investing in reliable IT support upfront can save you from trouble down the line. Maybe it’s worth talking to a managed service provider to get a clearer picture of what they need!
Before diving in, make sure to check the hardware requirements for the software they're using. Autodesk has detailed specs for running their programs. It's usually not ideal to have everyone depending on the same workstation, especially if there’s potential for competing software needs. If you decide on a shared workstation, just keep in mind you might need a more robust server setup, and that can get pricey. It's essential you understand the specific requirements and limitations first to avoid any major headaches later on!
It's great that you're helping out! However, sharing a single workstation could be problematic since 3D apps can be resource-hungry, and only one person can use it at a time. Instead, if they already have individual workstations, it might be worth considering just keeping those and using a file server or cloud storage for shared access to files. You'll want to clarify if the goal is to cut costs or ensure both can access the same data easily, since that might change the solution you go for. Also, it might be helpful to consult with a local IT specialist to figure out the best path forward based on their actual needs.
Exactly! It's important to get clarity on the goals before you start investing. A good IT consultant can really help tailor a solution that fits both their needs and budget.