Which Vista version for this situation?

[kranky]

I've been asked to find new PCs for our church. They'll need three PCs with basic networking - file sharing/printer sharing. Nothing fancy. One PC is the "server" and has the printer hardwired to it.

I'd like to not spend any more than necessary but I will probably be the one to set up the networking and the easier the better. Any recommendations as to which Vista version would be the best fit?

Thanks in advance.

 

[InlineFive]

Take a look here for Home version guide. Unless you really need some of the multimedia features you'll probably be fine with Home Basic. Unless you need a greater level of managability and control that you'll have to go Business or Ultimate for. Such as RDP server, EFS, etc.

 

[kranky]

Thanks - if Home Basic gets the basic file/print sharing thing done, that's good enough.

 

[VooDooAddict]

I'd go Business for the "previous versions" capability in a workplace. Home basic is also limited to 5 peer networking connections which could cause issues if they expand to more systems.

I know it's $280 vs $450 for a 3 pack... $170 is a small cost compared to possible problems from using Home later.

Maybe the better question is why go Vista? And do they need Windows? or could Ubuntu/OpenSUSE and OpenOffice work for them?

 

[VooDooAddict]

Not sure if you are looking for any build suggestions, not sure of the budget, not sure if they also need monitors...

Supporting Vista or Ubuntu. Just under $2000 before shipping for 3 systems' hardware that should last a long time with top quality components:

Dual Core AMD 3800+
2Gigs DDR2 RAM
80 Gig HD
Integrated Nvidia 6100 Video
19" LCD Monitors
Logitech KB/Mouse

3 x AMD 3800+ AM2 Excellent compatibility and long term performance.

3 x Asrock Motherboard with 6100 Video and DVI Asrock is a quality low cost and basic feature brand.

6 x Name Brand 1GB DDR2-667 Sticks Using 2 per system for 2GB Dual Channel.

3 x WD 80GB SATA Hard Drive

3 x Acer 19" LCD (1280x1024) with DVI

3 x Logitech USB Keyboard

3 x Logitech USB Mouse

3 x NEC DVD Burners

3 x Asus MiniTower (microATX) Cases with Powersupplies



Toss on Ubuntu, XP Pro, or Vista Business along with OpenOffice ... then call it a day.

 

[WobbleWobble]

What about buying a simple print server device and get a drive enclosure that is networkable?