Hi, We have a small organization (80 mailboxes) and one Exchange 2007 server with the Hub, Client Access, and Mailbox roles all on the same box. We are sending and delivering external mail directly via the Hub (no Edge). Does the Edge Service need to be running on the box? And if not, will performance be affected if it is? Thanks, Mike

Edge is a server role. But you dont not need to run the Edge role. The Edge Role allows you to do certain things however that cant be done with just the Hub Trans role - but not an absolute requirement. More info: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/bb124701.aspx

To add to what Andy says...the Edge role can not be collocated on the same server as the MB/CAS/HUB. Also the Edge server would sit in a perimeter network and would not be joined to your domain. It is not required, but it is highly recommended to have something in between the internet and your HUB server: Edge, host SPAM solution, on-premise SPAM appliance, etc.Tim Harrington - Catapult Systems - http://HowDoUC.blogspot.com

Sorry, maybe I mistated that. The Edge Synch Service is running on the CAS/HUB/MB server. I assume this can be disabled since we are not subscribing an Edge Server? And yes, we are using SPAM/Maleware appliance. Thanks! -Mike

If you are talking about the "Microsoft Exchange EdgeSync" windows service on the HUB, then you are correct. This service can be disabled. It is only needed if the HUB is participating in an Edge Synchronization.Tim Harrington - Catapult Systems - http://HowDoUC.blogspot.com

Heres a list of Exchange services and whether they are optional or required: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa998342(EXCHG.80).aspx