What changes does the server make to a client computer?

Applies To: Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials

When you connect a computer to the server, Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials makes a number of changes to the computer so the computer and the server can work together.

The server:

  • Installs the Connector software on the computer.

  • Installs Microsoft .NET Framework 4 on the computer if not already installed.

  • Creates shortcuts on the computer’s desktop to the Dashboard and Launchpad.

  • Configures Windows Firewall ports on the computer to allow the following features to work:

    • Core Networking

    • Remote Desktop

  • Makes the following changes to the computer to facilitate backups:

    • Creates scheduled tasks to run automatic backups.

    • Installs services that manage backup operations with the server.

    • Installs a virtual device driver that is used during file and folder restore.

  • Installs the Health Agent to detect issues and create the corresponding alert notifications.

  • Creates scheduled tasks on the computer for recurring health assessments and to synchronize health alert definitions.

  • Adds services to the computer, which the computer uses to communicate with the server and with other Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials features.

  • Opens TCP ports 3389 to allow Remote Desktop in Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP SP3 client computers.

  • Opens UDP ports 137 to allow NETBIOS name resolution in Windows XP SP3 client computers.

For information about connecting your computer to the server, see How do I connect computers to the server?