How do I setup Database server?

[BravoTwoZero]

Hi,

Thank you for reading the post. I have a webspace with 1&1 web provider but I want to host database in my office for sensetive information and security reason. My understanding is that I need to have a dedicated IP and a business line just to connect into my database. My asp code in 1&1 will just connect the database to my SQL server. Is that Possible? If so what is the process involved doing that?

I am most grateful

[txbakers]

Yes, you are correct you will need a static IP address so the webserver can find the database server over the internet.

You could set up an ODBC connection from the webserver pointed to your new IP, or you might be able to do it without the ODBC, I never tried it.

HOWEVER, I would strongly caution you to reconsider sending the data back and forth across the internet. That would necessitate having the database open to the internet, and it would be very easy for someone to break in and delete your data.

[jpjones]

I would also recommend hosting the db server in your office.
The latency between the web server and the db server will slow down the apparent speed of your web site dramatically.
As the security aspect of this set up is also something you should consider carefully. Having your sensitive data flowing back and forth across the net, open to sniffing, is a no-no.

JP

[plumsauce]

There are arguments for either approach.

However, you can use encrypted tunnels
for the backend communications.

You can also firewall the entire setup
properly. ie, necessary ports only,
accept connections only to and from
the correct addresses.

Done properly, security is no more of
a concern than hosting it at the data
centre.

Latency is still an issue of course.

+++++

[BravoTwoZero]

Thank you very much you all for your kind replies. I am thinking of setting firewall in the fast instance. I am slightly concerned about data travelling over the net. As you mentioned any body can sniff in. Would https or SSL certificate will help? How about com object?

Much Appricated for your time.

Bravo

[davegerard]

You might as well host the whole darn thing in-house. Nowadays you don't need much. Windows 2000 comes with Internet Information Services that will serve up a single site (For multiple sites you'd need Win2k Server or something like it). Speed will be greatly improved by having the database on the same network as your site. You can pick up a firewall/router box for about $160 at any computer store, even Best Buy. You may consider some additional firewall software for around $40. The nice thing is that ALL of your machines behind the firewall use local IPs and are not directly connected to the outside (not exactly that is).

The only thing you might want to think about outsourcing is the DNS. Unless you'd like to set aside a simple and inexpensive machine for that. I've experienced some problems resolving IPs while trying to run DNS from behind a firewall and opening Port 53 for DNS requests, but outside the firewall works great. You'd of course need another IP for that if you do it yourself, but it's a pretty easy setup. DNS software, about $100 for a single machine. Most ISPs charge around $15-$20 per month for a block of 8 IPs (5 usable to you).

Go for it. You won't regret it.

[plumsauce]

A note of caution.

Windows 2000 Pro has a 10 connection limit.

[davegerard]

Guess I didn't know that. I use Win2k Server. Thanks for the tip.

[BravoTwoZero]

Many Thanks Guys,

I realy looking forward to setup the server. I also have home server not connected to internet though. I have a good book about the server setup and that should work for me. Thanks again for all of your help.