Microsoft SharePoint Server for Windows is a

collaborative platform and document management system

that runs on Windows Server. It[SQ]s a powerful, on-premises solution (meaning it[SQ]s installed and managed within your own organization[SQ]s network, not in the cloud like SharePoint Online) designed to help organizations manage and share information, collaborate on projects, and streamline workflows.

Here[SQ]s a breakdown of its key features and functionalities :

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Document Management:

Centralized storage, version control, metadata management, and robust search capabilities make it easy to find, share, and manage documents.

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Collaboration:

Teams can work together on documents, share ideas, and communicate effectively using features like wikis, discussion boards, and shared workspaces.

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Workflow Automation:

SharePoint allows the automation of business processes, such as approvals, notifications, and task assignments, improving efficiency and reducing manual work.

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Intranet Portal:

It can serve as the foundation for a company intranet, providing a single point of access to information, applications, and resources.

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Customizability:

SharePoint can be extensively customized to meet specific organizational needs through the use of features like workflows, custom lists, and integration with other applications.

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Security:

It offers robust security features, including access control lists, encryption, and auditing, to protect sensitive information.

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Integration:

It integrates well with other Microsoft products like Office, Exchange, and Azure.

Who uses SharePoint Server?

Organizations of all sizes, particularly those with stringent security requirements or needing deep customization, might choose SharePoint Server. However, it requires dedicated IT resources for installation, maintenance, and upgrades.

Comparison to SharePoint Online:

SharePoint Online is the cloud-based version of SharePoint. While it offers many of the same features, it[SQ]s managed by Microsoft, eliminating the need for on-premises infrastructure and IT management. The choice between SharePoint Server and SharePoint Online depends on an organization[SQ]s IT infrastructure, security needs, budget, and level of IT expertise.