Two other methods for optimizing host efficiency are to use a host that has a fast CPU and a fast hard drive. And, since the files are on a file server, speeds will be quite a bit slower since the host has to grab information over the network rather than from their local hard drive. So, if the first machine that launches the file is a slow computer then everyone will also slow down. That's because the first person to launch a solution becomes the host and is the central processing point for all guests. but each additional program will take away from the processing power of FileMaker.ĭedicating your host also means making sure the same computer is always running the FileMaker solution and that the files are located on that machine's local hard drive. FileMaker can run alongside other programs like AppleShare, Timbuktu, mail servers, etc. In addition, FileMaker Pro should be the only application running on a Macintosh or Windows host. That means that FileMaker should always be the active application to get optimum speeds.

On the Macintosh, the active application controls how much processing power background applications get. Even cross-platform solutions will not need any additional hardware or software as is needed with cross-platform file sharing.Īlmost as important as Ethernet is dedicating your host. The cost of an Ethernet hub for 10 users is a little over $100.00 and Ethernet cards are running less than $100.00 but most computers come with Ethernet cards so the cost should be very low. What you will need is Ethernet cards for each machine, an Ethernet hub and Ethernet cabling. The cost is not as great as you may think. This can increase the performance of the network up to 50% and possibly more if there is already heavy traffic. The first thing you should do is upgrade to ethernet. These tips can be used with FileMaker Pro Server but are positioned in this article as methods for optimizing a network before purchasing FileMaker Pro Server. This article also discusses points other than speed when considering FileMaker Pro Server.īefore dropping a thousand dollars for FileMaker Pro Server, here are some tips for optimizing the regular FileMaker Pro for maximum speed. If you advise a client to spend $1,000.00 for server software then the performance increase better be considerable. The difference in price is dramatic so it's not a decision to make lightly. One of the biggest issues for FileMaker users is when to consider FileMaker Pro Server over FileMaker Pro.

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