Currently running peer-to-peer. 8 computers mostly 7 and 8 pro.

Looking to convert to a basic server system. Just run AC and probably Active Domain + backups. No sharepoint, no exchange.

Have a basic recent lenovo xeon server, will load up with memory & 300gb intel s3500 enterprise-lite ssd.

Want the system to be easy to backup and restart in case of hardware failure. Doesn't have to be real time failover, just not offline too long.

Thinking about installing Server 2012 r2 essentials. Run as a virtual machine on hyper-v and have it replicate to another basic box running hyper-v to use in case of hardware failure.

Thoughts? Reocmmendations? I'm just looking for 1 step up from peer to peer, just don't wan't my office to be dead in the water for too long if the server crashes. Difficultly level for implementing and reverting to replica in case of crash? I'm very tech saavy but never ran a modern server before.

Should we all be running virtualized servers now? With easier replication and cheap, capable hardware sounds like way to go in case of hardware failure, right?

thanks

larry

solo im
cincinnati

Larry
Solo IM
Midwest