Edge Overview

The Edge Server role in Lync Server comprises three separate subroles just as in previous versions of the product: Access Edge Server, Web Conferencing Edge Server, and A/V Edge Server role. Each role provides slightly different functionality and depending on the organization’s requirements it might not be necessary to use all three services. With Lync Server 2010, all three roles are deployed together as opposed to individually like in previous product versions.

Unlike many of the internal roles, the Edge Server does not require database or file shares because it does not store data other than the Local Configuration Store replica from the Central Management Store. Because the Edge Server is designed to be deployed in a perimeter or DMZ network, it runs a limited set of services to make it as secure as possible. Edge Servers are also typically not joined to the internal Active Directory domain, but can be if necessary. The different Edge Server roles provide unique features, as shown in Figure 6.1. The reverse proxy server also provides some external services through the Front-End pool.

Figure 6.1 Lync Server External Access