The SME Server was designed to do a few things very well. Included in this list would be:
- acting as a file/print server for a predominantly Windows LAN
- acting as an email server (with good spam and virus filtering)
- acting as a web server for multiple domains
- acting as a DHCP server for local machines
- acting as a dns server for local machines to use
- acting as a gateway device (firewall/router) for the local network
Some things have been done on SME Server slightly differently from other distributions to achieve two goals: first, to make this a very secure server out of the box; and second, to make it easier to administer by less technical people. What this means is that you cannot blindly do what a generic Linux textbook might tell you in order to achieve a certain end.
To get to your desire to get up and running quickly...
To set up local file shares, create ibays and store the data in the .../files subdirectory of the ibay. Set up a Group (or two or three) as a means of controlling which set of users can access which ibays. Their Windows userid/password should match their SME userid/password to allow appropriate access. On the Windows clients, map a network drive to the ibay or directly to the /files directory.
The email server is ready to go. Just add users and appropriate domains. (Go to the 'E-mail' menu item to set spam filtering options, enable webmail access, etc.)
To set up a web server for different domains, first create an ibay ('Information bays' menu item) for each domain; then add a domain name ('Domains' menu item) and point it to the ibay and select 'resolve locally'. Then if you go to 'Hostnames and addresses' you will see what has been set up for you automagically. In effect, these are your dns entries. Then put your web site content in the .../html folder of the ibay (there is a default index page generated when you create the ibay). That domain's web site should be accessible locally (sometimes I have noticed a delay of some considerable time before the domain's dns entries get recognized -- just be patient).
The DHCP server can be enabled or not in the configuration menu.
The dns server also acts as a WINS server. It interacts with public dns servers as necessary to resolve requests. To have an external browser access a web site for one of your domains, simply point a public dns service at your public IP address. If you need to change where a local dns entry points, go to the 'Hostnames and addresses' menu item and modify the relevant entry.
If you have set your server up to be in gateway/server mode, you need two NICs one connecting to the external internet (e.g., through a dsl/cable modem) and the other connecting to your lan (hub/router etc.). This setting enables a full-function firewall and router. If you are in server-only mode, you need your network's firewall/router to forward the necessary ports (e.g., for web access and email) to the SME Server.
That should get you going with the basics.
However, because it is a server based on a Red Hat distribution you could add quite a bit more if you wanted. BUT, learn a lot more before you embark on that course of action. Make extensive use of the search function on these forums, read the manual and wiki (links provided earlier). There is a learning curve -- take the time to learn.
Enjoy!
John