What types of networking can be used with Filemaker Pro?
There are two basic types – for smaller groups there is Peer to Peer, and for larger installations there is Server oriented networking. Peer to Peer is usually used for just two computers. Only one of the computers actually holds the database – and it is called the HOST. The HOST must always be started up first, and then the other computer starts up and connects to the HOST. Both computers work on the same database; that way there are no duplicates (which would make a mess). Server is usually recommended for 3 or more computers. This involves an additional program called Filemaker Server which costs $995 AND requires a separate computer dedicated only to running the database (it cannot be used for anything else). The server can handle up to 250 simultaneous users. It is pretty powerful, and provides excellent data security, does automatic backups and handles intense traffic seamlessly.
