OK, here's some points for you:
1. You can use file and print sharing just fine with NetBIOS over TCP/IP setup. This can be done manually on the clients, or through some DHCP servers.
2. You can even have workstations (Win2K and newer preferrably) not use NetBIOS/WINS at all. When using Active Directory, all resources are handled via the directory and resource location is handled via DNS. You can check out the info here:
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/Q229/6/63.ASPIt does state that some software may not care for the total removal of NetBIOS and File and Print Sharing will probably not work with older clients as well.
3. Since it's a 2 system LAN, scalablity isn't even an issue, however learning good practices with current technology is something that should be carried over to all setups, not just ones that you are paid for. I mean, if you are going to settle for an out of date protocol, then why bother with a cutting edge OS to begin with, right?
4. Client for Microsoft Networks isn't something that's "broadcasted", but rather a function of the local OS and its ability to:
a. Be a member of a network (register with a browser, handle authentication, etc)
b. Handle and route local resources to external requests as per membership in said network.
NetBIOS can ride piggyback on the TCP/IP and IPX/SPX protocols that come from MS, and is half of what NetBEUI is all about.
I hope this clarifies the differences between them, and I why I feel NetBEUI should be left alone to die in peace. MS left the protocol around as a last ditch effort for people that need it for compatibility, not because it's an easier protocol to use. TCP/IP is VERY easy to use once it's understood, and that doesn't take very long for the usage in this case here. It will be killed off, that's a fact. It was left around in Win2K because of the server release more than anything else, that's why you saw it there. Don't you think it's odd that it is now more difficult to find and setup than in the past? They WANT it gone, as this would make that last few networks using it to upgrade to TCP/IP and make the transition to AD much simpler.
So yeah, I guess you can say I have issues with it.
