Windows

I would start out with windows 2k resource kit.

Im sure someone else can give you more information on ways to do the above... but just trying to help..

Well to start, many of your questions can be answer by the Win2k Resource Kit. Thats a must have for a Windows Admin. Here is a link:

http://www.microsoft.com/windows2000/techinfo/reskit/default.asp

As for Active Directory, if you don't have any directory service experience I would suggest that you take a course before implementing it. If training is not an option, then I would definately set up a test lab and get a real good book on the subject. Here is one book I highley recommend:

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbnInquiry.asp?userid=2W2NFFGX3L&isbn=0596004664&itm=1

Here is the script repository at Microsoft that may be helpful to you as well:

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/treeview/default.asp?url=/technet/scriptcenter/default.asp

I know none of these are direct answers, but hope it helps.

Get familiar with the windows resource kits and the dsget and dsquery commands for the group info. Honestly I would start thinking about getting away from 2k and move more to 2003 server. It's much better. And no one can ever challege what these guys have on this site.

http://www.sysinternals.com/