I manage a small network for a non-profit. I am no more than a (semi)talented amature. The system is:
5 computers with static ip’s, 1 snap appliance (80 Gb) for files, 2 networked printers – our isp hosts the web page and email.
We need to upgrade our system and/or pc’s (4 year old IBM e-pc’s with 900 MHz and 128 MB ram). Speed has always been a problem. Pc’s run win 2k and use Outlook 2000. I need to add 2-3 pc’s to the system for a total of 8
My thought was to get a small server with a SATA board (dual core p4 or amd), and 2 – 250 GB HD’s for raid 1 with a raid controller/processor.
If I can use Microsoft SBS 2000 and run the “Office” apps from the server then I can keep the old pc’s to save money. . Also there is the increased security.
1. Can I upgrade to Winxp on the old machines? The memory is upgradeable but expensive so we’re stuck with 128 MB.
2. Can I use the same Outlook licenses or do I have to get a special outlook (Maybe upgrade to Outlook 2003)?
3. I have NO experience with Windows Server – I have one job title that covers three different functions/departments and I’m already stretched thin. I don’t mind learning Server 200 but I have neither the time nor the desire to do extensive net admin/ or tweaking. I’m hoping I can just set it up and it will basically run itself (for the most part).
The other alternative is to get all new desktops with WINXP and Office 2003 and replace the SNAP appliance with one that has more storage capacity. I think the server set up is the way to go but I?m concerned about the compexity. Also in my research I?ve come across the phraase?server class hardware? but can?t find an explanation of why this is different than regular desktop hardware.
I know this is really long. Any help would be most appreciated.
Shimong
