I have 8 older PCs that I bought real cheap at an auction and was wondering if they would be sufficient for a server 2003 lab. They are (4) Toshiba 433MHz and (4) Dell 400MHz, both using PC133 memory. I have several 4-6 GB HDD to use in them, but just enough RAM to test out one at a time and load Win2K with no apparent problems. While finishing my degree at a local university, I signed up on MSDN to get a few copies of Server 2003 (Enterprise, Standard, and Web) with at least 2 product keys for each. I know M$ requires a minimum of 133MHz/128MB and recommends 550MHz/256MB, but am wondering if what I have will work for me before I go out and buy a batch of cheap RAM on eBay to supply these old PCs.
I just purchased CBT Nuggets for MCSE 2003: Security and from what I have viewed so far, these are excellent. I have also picked up several books and my employer will be putting some of us through an on-site MCSA/E training this summer. Two years ago I went through the MCSE 2000 boot camp and was totally lost. Knowing now that you need a good grasp of networking first, I have prepared more this time by getting my A+ and studying up on Net+ first. The more redundant material I can soak up, the better I’ll utilize what I learn.
Anyway, sorry this is so long-winded. Do you think my old PCs can run my server lab to physically see Domain Controller replication, multiple Domains, etc in action? Thanks for any advice.