Understanding SharePoint Server
Sharepoint Server stands out as a robust collaboration and document management platform, designed to enhance teamwork within organizations. It empowers users to efficiently share, organize, and manage information, driving productivity and streamlining workflows. Whether deployed on-premises or integrated with a Microsoft 365 enterprise subscription, SharePoint Server offers a versatile environment to leverage the latest collaboration tools and features. It facilitates the creation of team sites for shared resources and applications, utilizes powerful search capabilities to locate expertise and information across the organization, and keeps users informed with personalized news feeds through SharePoint home and mobile apps.
To delve deeper into its capabilities, explore Learn about SharePoint.
Planning Your SharePoint Server Deployment
Embarking on your SharePoint Server journey requires careful planning, especially if you’re new to the platform. Begin by defining your objectives and the scale of your intended deployment. Are you envisioning a large-scale enterprise setup catering to hundreds or thousands of users, or a more contained deployment for a smaller team or organization? Your hardware resources, budget, and specific needs will significantly influence your deployment strategy.
System requirements and prerequisites are version-specific, so ensure compatibility with your chosen SharePoint Server edition.
| Deployment Scenario | Essential Reading |
|---|---|
| SharePoint Server Subscription Edition | System requirements for SharePoint Server Subscription Edition Hardware and topology requirements for SharePoint Server Subscription Edition Software requirements for Database Servers for SharePoint Server Subscription Edition Software requirements for SharePoint Servers for SharePoint Server Subscription Edition |
| SharePoint Server 2019 | 2019 Hardware and software requirements 2019 Prerequisites |
| SharePoint Server 2016 | 2016 Hardware and software requirements 2016 Prerequisites |
| SharePoint Server 2013 | 2013 Hardware and software requirements 2013 Prerequisites |
Deployment Options Based on Company Size
The size of your organization plays a crucial role in determining the most suitable SharePoint Server deployment approach. Large enterprises and smaller businesses have different considerations when it comes to infrastructure and management.
| Organization Size | Recommended Deployment Guides |
|---|---|
| Large Enterprise (SharePoint Server Subscription Edition) | Installing SharePoint Server Subscription Edition on Windows Server Core |
| Small to Medium Business (SharePoint Server Subscription Edition) | Installing SharePoint Server Subscription Edition on one server |
| Large Enterprise (SharePoint Server 2019 or 2016) | Install SharePoint Server 2019 or 2016 on the farm servers |
| Small to Medium Business (SharePoint 2019 or 2016) | Install SharePoint Server 2019 or SharePoint Server 2016 on one server |
Upgrading and Updating Your SharePoint Server
For organizations with existing SharePoint Server installations, staying current is vital. Whether you’re looking to upgrade to the latest version or apply feature packs and updates, understanding the upgrade paths and update processes is essential for maintaining a secure and feature-rich environment.
| Upgrade/Update Scenario | Relevant Documentation |
|---|---|
| Upgrade to SharePoint Server Subscription Edition (from 2019 or 2016) | Upgrade to SharePoint Server Subscription Edition |
| Upgrade to SharePoint Server 2019 (from 2016) | Upgrade to SharePoint Server 2019 |
| Upgrade to SharePoint Server 2019 (from SharePoint Server 2013) | Upgrade to SharePoint Server 2019 |
| Upgrade to SharePoint Server 2016 (from SharePoint Server 2013) | Upgrade to SharePoint Server 2016 |
| Upgrade to SharePoint 2013 (from SharePoint Server 2010) | Upgrade from SharePoint 2010 to SharePoint 2013 |
| Applying Updates to SharePoint Server 2016 | Deploy software updates for SharePoint Server 2016 |
| Applying Updates to SharePoint Server 2013 | Deploy software updates for SharePoint 2013 |
Exploring Cloud Migration and Hybrid Environments
The cloud offers compelling advantages, and many organizations are considering migrating their on-premises SharePoint Server environments to the cloud or adopting a hybrid approach. Whether you plan a full migration or a gradual transition, understanding hybrid options and migration strategies is key to a successful cloud journey.
| Cloud Strategy | Guidance Resources |
|---|---|
| Exploring Hybrid SharePoint Server Solutions | Explore SharePoint Server hybrid |
| Migrating On-Premises Data to SharePoint in Microsoft 365 | Migrate to SharePoint |
Conclusion: Your Next Steps with SharePoint Server
This guide provides a starting point for your SharePoint Server journey, outlining key considerations for deployment, upgrades, and cloud integration. By carefully planning and utilizing the resources provided, you can effectively implement and manage SharePoint Server to enhance collaboration and productivity within your organization. Continue exploring the linked documentation to gain deeper insights and ensure a successful SharePoint Server experience tailored to your specific needs.
