I would like to know if I would benefit from upgrading my server
software. We use a Dell server with Windows NT Small Business Server,
10 licenses, to contol log on by client machines, file access and to
provide a file server. Our internet service is outside of server
environment, through a router and firewall.

I could never get exchanger server to work well with with our hosting
site. Consequently we use email through our host to communicate. This
seems a waste as we all work in the same office.

All the machines connecting to the server are W98, 2000 or XP pro. We
have some permission access issues with the XP machines and the
server.

As much we could not get exchange server to work, the server OS has
never crashed. Stability is a concern, in any upgrade.

I am sure I don't know enough to provide all the relevant information.
I can answer additional questions about how we use the system, and
what we hope to get out of an upgrade if necessary.

Lastly, I see from the MS site, there are 3 versions of 2000 server.
Any answers should recommend between the versions with a why.

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Request for Question Clarification by alienintelligence-ga on 01 Jan 2003 05:25 PST

Hi chrosmack,

I started answering your question but
then I began to think of a few things
that I felt should be clarified first.

What is the financial situation like?
Shall I consider the cost of upgrades
as well? Is there a reason you are
wanting to upgrade as opposed to
just purchasing/building another PC
to use in addition to existing ones?
A purchased PC may have the OS already
installed, including licenses.

Are there reasons you did not include
upgrading to Windows XP Pro?

I think these points will help in
answering your questions.

thanks
-Alien

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Clarification of Question by chrosmack-ga on 01 Jan 2003 09:14 PST

In terms of the upgrade, if it makes sense, we will probably buy
another server with faster processors, larger hard drives etc, and
install the new software and sell our existing server. I don't believe
in replacing a critical piece of equipment until we know for sure the
replacement will work, and we can go back if there is a problem. So
the cost is not an issue here. My concern is over features, unknown to
me now, that we would benefit from. I find the Windows NT system of
permissions and shares for files non-intuitive and difficult to use. I
am hoping the newer software would be easier to use, and would allow
to do things like communicate with one another better.

I didn't consider Windows XP pro as I didn't know it could be/is
server software. My experience is with it, is on client machines as an
OS. Maybe my question isn't formulated right because I  don't know
enough to ask the correct question?

Your real question is should you continue using Windows platform? 

A: No, use Linux:

Reducces your expense.
No worries about licenses
Open source
Secure

www.redhat.com
www.suse.com
www.mandrake-linux.com
www.sco.com

This isn't a public forum to add opinions
that are not conducive to the question, Linuxguy.

-Alien

Windows 2000 (Win2k) website where you can find links to features:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows2000/server/evaluation/features/default.asp

The three flavors of Win2k:
Server - would probably do everything you need. (up to 4 Processors)
Advanced Server  - all the features of Server, allows more processors
and memory (Up to 8 Processors and adds clustering ability - 2 nodes)
Datacenter Server - Allows up to 32 processors, more RAM (32GB) and up
to 4 node clustering

From the 300' view you've given of your enviroment, Server would
probably be the one you would want, anything above would be overkill
unless you are considering clustering or an 8 way server.

Most obvious benefit would be better chance of getting Exchange to
work, if that was the determining factor I would d/l an evaluation
copy of Win2K to see if you can get Exchange to work on it in your
enviroment.

If you're going to get a new server, then you will of course be
getting Win2k, but if you're finding that NT4 is stable and provides
all the functionality you need, why change?

Some benefits of Win2k over NT4:
More Stable
More Secure 
Active Directory (!!!! Rules over NT4 resource management!!!)
^ gives Exchange MUCH more flexibility and usability.
Easier, more intuative interface
Better drivers for more devices
USB support
Better desktop management -
TERMINAL SERVICES!!!  !!!!

Some things to consider (for an upgrade)
Can the existing machine handle it? Win2k CAN run on a 133MHz box, but
is much happier when above 300MHZ and has at least 256MB RAM.
Migration strategy - need to fully understand the scope of the
undertaking, if this is just a small office with 10 computers, it's
not that big of a deal, however it shouldn't be overlooked.
Application compatability - Will your current server applications run
under win2k?

Windows 2000 adds a plethora of new features to the windows
enviroment, however don't let a rich feature set be your determining
factor.  Instead base your decision on the needs of your buisness.

PS> Windows XP Pro is a client side OS, not intended for use as a
server.  It can function as a low end file server, but if you want to
add server infrastructure functionality such as DHCP, DNS, RAS/RADIUS,
ISA, WINS.

Doug
MCSE NT4, MSCE Win2K, Server +, Compaq ASE

didn't finish the last thought..

if you want to add any of the above features, including most
importantly a secure logon (would require configuring a domain) you'll
definately need a Server OS.

Alos - the permission and sharing structure maintains basically the
same feel (unfortunately)as NT4, however it seems to work better. 
Once you understand how perms are applied it's not that difficult to
apply effective, secure lockdown of critical files.

Hope this helps, 
Doug