domain servers

In response to question 1, how slow are we talking about here? Like seconds or minutes?

You should verify that the client PC's are pointing to the domain controller's DNS server (or another DNS server in the domain). I would assume you are using DHCP to serve out the addresses, but you may have static addresses which means changing manually on each workstation. I have seen this many times, especially with WinXP clients.

To continue resolving external addresses you will have to set up a forwarder for your DNS server, pointing to your ISP's DNS server.

Hope this helps. If these settings are correct, then post back with more details. Also, regarding question two: Can you post the exact "phonebook" error message?

Have you check the location of your Global Catalog server ensure it's in the same site at the servers. Go to Active directory Sites and services in admin tools on the win2k domain controller and select a domain controller to house the Global catalogue. A local server would be better if on one subnet. Also check DNS entries and replications if using more then one site.

in resolved the phonebook entry errors by blocking internet access through the phone

this was a precoution incase the lease line is down..so i had enabled internet connection sharing on the modem adapter. but still that means if the lease line goes down then what?

the clients take aboute 2-5 minutes to log in its really a bother..the customers are joking that the switch on there pcs, log there psswrd then go for tea break back in time for serious work!!