>I'm putting togather a proposal to build a web server to enable our 3 remote branch offices to access a Visual Foxpro app over the Internet. In addition, I want to enable a separate app to be access by our 10,000 member independent distributors throughout the country to access it over the Internet. I want the latter app to enable product ordering and tie this into our AR and inventory system also written in Visual Foxpro. Can this be done?
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>I first need to get a Cost Analysis together so can someone give me some information on the following:
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>1. Can I use my existing internal NT Server for my web server or do I need to purchase a new web server hardware? Currently server is 233Mhz Pentium II with 96MB RAM, 4GB SCSI HD with a lot of room left over accessed by only 10 people.
>2. Why type of connection (ISDN, frame relay, etc.) and communication hardware (routers, switches, etc.) should I consider and what are the costs involved (both inital setup cost and monthly charges). I'm considering dedicated frame relay. I don't anticipate a lot of traffic for at least a year after deployment.
>3. Anyother costs I should consider (addition hardware/software I need) besides what I've memtioned above?
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>I'm planning to use IIS, West Wind Web Connector, Visual Foxpro. I want to setup something like UT (now there's a great example!!!) where employees/independent distributors can login using userID and password to access the site. My current dilema is centered on dedicated connection setup and related charges and intergrading Foxpro with the Internet.
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>Any specific examples or numbers for cost well be greatly appreciated.
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>TIA
>John.

Some things that you may want to consider regarding new server hardware are;
1) How many users may be accessing these apps concurrently?
2) How large are the tables that these apps will be accessing?
3) Will these apps perform large amounts of complicated processing,ie.; SQL Selects, SCANs, etc.?

If the answer to any of these is yes, then you may want to consider a dedicated server.
Your current server should be adequate to handle the usage by the current 10 users and your 3 Branch offices.

Frame relay or higher would be a choice for adequate bandwidth. You will need to consider a router (I think) for your connection.
Costs for the dedicated access would be best provided by your local ISP's or Telco.

Feel free to contact me if you have any further questions....