What FileMaker Server does and when you need it

Beginner

Understand the difference between peer-to-peer sharing and FileMaker Server, and what Server adds beyond hosting.

What you'll learn

  • What FileMaker Server provides beyond peer-to-peer hosting
  • The key components: Admin Console, Data API, WebDirect, and ODBC/JDBC
  • Minimum requirements and supported platforms

FileMaker Server is dedicated server software that hosts FileMaker databases so multiple users can connect simultaneously over a network. It replaces peer-to-peer sharing (hosting from FileMaker Pro) with a reliable, always-on service that runs without a user logged in.

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Peer-to-peer vs. FileMaker Server

FileMaker Pro can share a database with up to 5 concurrent guests, but the host machine must stay running and logged in. FileMaker Server hosts up to 250 concurrent connections (depending on license), runs as a background service, survives logouts and reboots, and exposes the Data API, WebDirect, and Admin API.

All FileMaker Server lessonsOpening, closing, and pausing hosted databases

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