How to setup a domain type network

[bluestrobe]

I have a friend whos trying to migrate a moderate sized office from a workgroup type to a domain type network. He just bought a server with Windows 2003 Server OS on it to use as a file server and wants to customize this to be the domain server too. More information on MS Exchange would be helpful too. Hes looking for websites or even good books which can explain the setup of a domain network and/or setup an Exchange server so the employees don't have to use a free web based email service to contact each other.

 

[owensdj]

To be honest, I think your friend needs to hire a networking professional to come set up his domain rather than trying to do it on his own. If he really wants to try it, he should read Mastering Windows Server 2003 written by Mark Minasi. It explains setting up the operating system itself as well as Active Directory Domain and DNS configuration.

He wouldn't have to use MS Exchange to let the employees e-mail each other. For a small organization, all you have to is use a 3rd party e-mail service. The company that hosts your organization's web site will probably give you more than enough e-mail accounts. For example, if you have a web site at www.acme.com, you can give each employee their own @acme.com address.

 

[bluestrobe]

This question is from me. What are the advantages of workgroup over domain and vice versa?

 

[JackMDS]

This is a rather old write up, but it depicts the basic differences.

Link to: Windows NT4 Workgroup versus Domain.

Windows 2003 provide more capacity with Active Directory and much more security.

If less than 75 computers are on the Network, Windows 2003 Small Business Server (SBS) should be consider. The premium edition provides every thing that you need for a good price. A person with middle level knowledge of Networking can learn how to set it up.

:sun:

 

[bluestrobe]

He bought the Win2k3 SBS package. I'll give the page a read and forward the info to him.

 

[bluestrobe]

Could someone care to explain Active Directory?

 

[JackMDS]

Download and read the Document attached to this page.

http://www.microsoft.com/WindowsServer2003/techinfo/overview/adsmallbiz.mspx

:sun: