What is a Dedicated server?
A dedicated server is Internet-based server hosted, owned and managed by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and leased to an individual customer for a monthly or yearly fee.

Who is a Dedicated server for?
Giacom provides dedicated servers for a wide range of purposes. Many clients come from software development companies and design agencies, perhaps looking to host their client’s web sites or create and run special software that makes their sites interactive. The servers can also be used by businesses who demand greater control over their web presence, and need additional security and performance. Dedicated servers can also be operated as a high-volume email and email-filtering server, handling many thousands of emails per day.

What software can I load onto the server?
You can load any software provided it’s fully licensed to you.

How do I import my domains to my server?
Simply send an email to support@giacom.net or include a list of domains to import in a support request sent using myGiacom control panel. We will then setup these domains on our DNS servers and import them into your account.

How do I setup a website?
When a domain is correctly pointing into your server account, the website must then be setup within IIS. Windows Server platform provides step-by-step wizards to guide you through each process. We will provide any training necessary on how to do this.

How do I setup email accounts for domains?
This is done within Mail Enable - Mail server software. We will provide any training necessary on how to do this.

How do I configure my firewall?
You can connect to your firewall via the internal LAN interface through telnet or the firewall's web control panel.

I want to upgrade my server hardware. What steps do I need to take to get this done?
First you must contact us. We will then provide you with a quote, and then issue an invoice, which can be paid for within myGiacom control panel. Upgrades will usually be carried out on the next working day after payment is received.

How do I connect remotely to the server?
You have complete remote access to your server via Microsoft's Remote Desktop Connection, or Ultra VNC (Free remote access software). Access is gained using your server IP address, given to you upon sign-up, and then by using your unique username and password. For security, we would recommend you connect to the server using a VPN connection from your local PC or network to the server’s firewall, encrypting the data.

How and when will I be billed for the service?
You will be billed monthly or yearly depending on which method you choose upon sign-up. You can pay by credit or debit card, or by standing order. Yearly accounts can be paid by cheque.

How do I order a dedicated server?
You must call us on 0800 542 7500 or request a call back, using the callback facility, on the Giacom website. We will then activate your account and a technician will contact you within 24 hours with the details of your new server.

What support can I expect?
We can assist you in any server operating system problems you may have. We also support and maintain the server’s hardware 24x7.

Will I be given any training?
Yes - we provide initial training free of charge, and then back-up support thereafter.

How long will it take upon ordering my server, for it to be ready?
Your server usually takes less than 24 hours to set-up.

Do I have access to a control panel to manage my server via the web?
You have access to myGiacom to manage your domains and also access to the server's built in control panel, which can be accessed via the web.

I want to view statistics for each website running on my server. How can I do this?
We can install WebLog LE statistics server. Using this you can accurately monitor the statistics of each website. In order to view the statistics via the web, you must purchase the professional edition of the software.

What payment methods are accepted?
Most accounts are paid for automatically from a credit or debit card, however alternative payment methods are available such as monthly standing order or yearly cheque or bank transfer.

Can I run my SQL database on the server?
We install MSDE - the Microsoft SQL Desktop Engine - which allows most MS SQL database to be run, without the need for further development (this should be done with the full MS SQL locally). The MSDE has certain limitations, however can operate most small to medium-sized MS SQL databases. We also include a small query tool on your server to allow access to your data from the desktop. If you need to run your own copy of MS SQL on the server, you will need to select Windows 2003 Server Standard Edition as your operating system - this allows development work to be carried out on the server, and therefore provides access through the SQL Enterprise interface. For more information on MSDE or upgrading to Windows 2003 Server Standard Edition, please call 0800 542 7500

What is the minimum contract period?
12 months, however there is a 30-day money-back guarantee if you're not completely satisfied with our service.

Are there any setup fees?
On standard NetServers there are no setup fees, however some of the more advanced servers or on any bespoke solutions, setup fees may apply.

What are the upgrade charges for labour and components?
In exceptional circumstances you may need us to carry out additional work on your server. We charge £50 per hour for technician labour time. Parts will be quoted individually according to standard pricing.