Originally Posted by
Coach
No - the main computer can share information with the laptops. Whilst a server would often be used in such situations, it is not a necessity. It really depends on how much you want to share, and what access restrictions (if any) you want to put on it.
One thing about a server over a desktop, is that usually no one uses a server (say for surfing the net or downloading email) and so the liklihood of malware/virus/trojan being installed and active on the server is reduced. If the desktop gets trashed - you're all out of commission.
Most important with or without a server is to make sure you have a good backup routine! If it's just predominantly MYOB data + say office documents - I'd look into an online backup, then there are no disks to mess with and if the office blows up your data is safe elsewhere.