Understanding Components

The environment consists of various components, some of which are optional. Which components you install and where you install them depend on your topology and how you use the product. This topic describes where you can install the components, and their purpose and use in a typical Nintex Automation installation.

The table below lists the components that are typically installed in a topology.

Component	Required/ Optional	Installed on	Description and Notes
Server (application server)	Required	Application Server(s)	The Server Windows service and other components that provide the core functionality of the product platform. For example SmartObject service, Workflow services and SmartForms services, as well as supporting services including logging, authentication, scheduling, licensing, and others.
Database	Required	Microsoft SQL Instance	This is the database that the product uses for its own internal data storage. The database is usually installed along with the first installation of the Server, targeting a specified SQL instance.
Core	Required	All machines where the product components are installed	Provides basic functionality required by the product installer, as well as installing assemblies required by the product.
Setup Manager	Required	All machines where the product components are installed	The Setup Manager is used to install, remove, configure, and modify the products components on the machine.
Site	Required	K2 Application Server(s) Web Server(s)	The K2 Site contains the Workspace(Desktop), Management site, Runtime and Designer sites and other web services.
Package and Deployment	Optional (but recommended)	Application Server(s)	Used to package artifacts (such as SmartObjects, Forms, Views and Workflows) in an environment and then deploy the resulting package of artifacts in a different environment.
Nintex K2 for SharePoint	Optional	App deployed to the SharePoint App Catalog	Provider-hosted app for SharePoint Online/2019 or later, allowing for building of applications with SmartObjects, SmartForms and Workflows in Microsoft SharePoint.