Recommeded reading to install W2K Server

[TheBull]

Hi all:

I am looking for some recommended books or sites on installing and configuring Windows 2000 Server. I scanned the FAQ and the forum, but links I found, I didn't completely understand

A little background on me:
I am a Unix programmer/DBA (not an SysAdmin) for the last 9 years. I haven't tried to install or configure a W2K server. Soon my employer will be closing down our office (around October) and at that time, I would like to pursue an MCSE. I have some basic networking skills but nothing certified. I do a lot of the hardware troubleshooting for friends, family and co-workers. I've been reading this site for several months, but finally decided it's time to join.

Anyway, I'd love to get a jump on understanding Active Directory, Domain controlling, Terminal Services, etc. I guess you could say, I'm not sure where to start my learning process. I don't have the money for a training course right now, but I'll get a severance when I'm laid off.

Thanks for any replies

 

[NogginBoink]

My two cents:

Go online and download the timebombed versions of these packages.

Get a spare computer.

Install and read what's on the screen. That's a good place to start.

If you really want to get good information, try the Windows 2000 Server Resource Kit. A box with 7 or 8 books in it. (Not inexpensive, tho.) That's the best resource I can suggest to you.

 

[watts3000]

Resource kits are great but for someone starting off I would recommend mcse study guys expecially books by sybex these books actually explain what you are doing instead of just taking you through the steps. I would also invest in a good windows 2000 professional book. The one I use is windows 2000 professional expert companion. If you know 2000 professional than thats a big jump start on the server.

 

[2canSAM]

The Best W2k Server book I have come accross would have to be Mastering Windows 2000 Server by Mark Minasi. I am MCSE (2000) and used the Sybex Book for self study. There was a question about Profiles that had eaten me alive and I could not find the answer too. Picked up this book on a whim and did not even get out of the first chapter before my problem has been resolved. I would as others have recommend downloading the Trial Version. Go ahead and get the Advanced Server though. It is a six month trial copy and is great for getting a feel for it. After the six months, back up, format, install, and restore and your good for another six. Though I am quite sure you will be installing and reinstalling quite abit. Good luck and most of all learn all you can. Good Admins/Engineers are still priceless.

 

[stash]

I second the nomination for ANY book by Mark Minasi. I was so impressed with his Mastering Windows NT Server 4 book, that I went out and bought Masting Windows 2000 Server as soon as it came out.

The book was great, but I just recently went out and bought the 3rd edition of the book (there is a fourth coming soon, I think). This version expanded on the first enormously. There are now huge sections on DNS, AD, and GPOs, which are probably the three most important topics for any Win2k administrator.

MCSE books will only give you enough information to answer specific things that the MCSE test will ask. This is a great start, but if you really want to learn how to use the OS, Minasi's Mastering books are the best, bar none.

 

[TheMagician]

Well if you plan to pursue MCSE and are going to buy books ahead of time, make sure you get the same books you'll be using at whatever center you'll be taking your classes. That'd just make things easier for you, I find the new Microsoft books really easy to read personally. But on top of that get the Transcender MCSE test simulation software.

Transcender Tests

The software is actually really affordable now.

 

[TheBull]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I got the trial version of Advanced Server and I ordered "Mastering Windows 2000 Server". Now all I need is to convince the wife I "need" another computer.

Thanks again..