Professional Team Foundation Server

2.4. Installing Team Foundation Server

Now that we have discussed the user accounts necessary to install Team Foundation Server and the Active Directory requirements, let's get our hands dirty with the actual installation details. Make sure you follow the setup directions carefully to ensure your installation is a success. If you stray from the directions or try to take shortcuts, you will more than likely run into problems. Take the woodworker's advice: Measure twice; cut once.

NOTE

The official Team Foundation Server installation guide from Microsoft can be downloaded at microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=e54bf6ff-026b-43a4-ade4-a690388f310e&displaylang=en.

First, here is a brief overview of the Team Foundation Architecture. There is a data tier, consisting of SQL Server 2005. There is an application tier, consisting of Team Foundation Server and Windows SharePoint Services. Finally, there is a client tier, consisting of Team Explorer, which can be used as a standalone application or integrated into Visual Studio 2005.

Together, these constitute a base installation of Team Foundation Server. In addition, you can install the Team Foundation Server Proxy, to provide cached access to the version control system, and the Team Foundation Build Server, which provides help with build automation. These applications can be installed on the application tier or on separate machines.

2.4.1. Types of Installation

There are two main types of installations: multiserver installations ...