[Elux]

Hi all

3 computers on my LAN all runningXP pro, they are networked as a workgroup, can I set them up as a domain? and what would be the advantages/ disadvantage of doing this?.

[Champion_R]

You need a server OS running on one box to even make a domain controller.

[sapiens74]

Joining a Domain also disbles the welcome screen and fast user switching

[adamvjackson]

Advantages would be centralized administration, adding/changing user rights and restrictions, roaming profiles, if you share computers.

Also, you can get a free (you may need to pay shipping) 120/180 day evaluation copy of Microsoft's server OS's, so that's a good (legal) route to go if you just want to learn a bit more about p2p/server network structures.

Also, asking here is another good way to learn!



Sorry for the long hiatus, everyone, I am back now!

[duhmez]

3 pc's?
you don't need a domain.

[Elux]

Thanx Guys

Just 1 final question, although I only have 3 PCs if I install server O/S on one of them, can I then set up other PCs at different geographical locations and administer them over the net?

Elux

[adamvjackson]

If you use RAS/RADIUS or VPN, then yes.

[Four and Twenty]

you don't need a server os for remote admin

use a program like dameware nt utilities

or if you have xp use remote desktop

[sapiens74]

Remote desktop if they have static ip's

[Four and Twenty]

or a dynamic dns service.

[DS3Circuit]

Im gonna throw in conf.exe or Netmeeting as a viable way to remote control a machine