Running a DC on XP Pro?

[shud]

As I'm sure some of you are well aware, home networking with Windows can be a pain. I don't feel like installing 2k on an old box and running it as a DC, so is it possible to set up/manage a domain from my main XP Pro system? I just want an easy way for computers to see each other; workgroups are a nightmare.

 

[dawks]

No, its not possible.. Unless there is some sort of third party setup for creating/hosting domains on XP.. The only way to do it is with 2000 Server or Server 2003.

Workgroups are fine if your on a single subnet, and dont have a ton of different users/shares.

 

[stash]

You might want to take a look at ADAM (Active Directory Application Mode). It will run on XP.

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/adam/default.mspx

 

[stash]

Although, ADAM isn't not really designed for what you ask. You really need a full fledged DC. What's wrong with putting 2k on an old box?

 

[Rapidskies]

Per Microsoft, "ADAM is a directory service that is designed to meet the needs of customers that cannot rely solely on Active Directory for providing directory services for directory-enabled applications. While Active Directory offers many benefits for managing network infrastructure, organizations often need a more flexible directory service for support of directory-enabled applications."

So in essence ADAM is an LDAP server for application use not to replace an Active Directory Domain controller. Interesting application for developers though.