What OS should I get?

[Colb]

I am looking at getting a Windows 5-pack deal for 5 computers I am planning on building for a Gaming Center business.

For these needs, I thought XP pro was a no brainer. But I see that I can get Win 2003 server a tad bit cheaper per pack compared to Xp pro.

What are points I should consider with each OS?

[monster]

Pro is over priced for the same utilities you can use on home.. IMO I would get Win 2003 server.. Or you could get Red Hat 7.0 for severs =)

[DragonNOA1]

Well I don't know much about what you are going to do or much about anything really ( ) but my 2cents is that you should get 2003 server as the main (server computer) and get xp pro to all hook up to that on the network. I really don't know much about anything but that makes the most sense to me unless you are going to put XP pro on a simple 5 computer network. I always thought Windows server editions weren't really for games. But then again, I don't know much.

*EDIT*
Oh, and by the way, congrads on graduating!

[Colb]

Originally posted by DragonNOA1 Well I don't know much about what you are going to do or much about anything really ( ) but my 2cents is that you should get 2003 server as the main (server computer) and get xp pro to all hook up to that on the network. I really don't know much about anything but that makes the most sense to me unless you are going to put XP pro on a simple 5 computer network. I always thought Windows server editions weren't really for games. But then again, I don't know much.

I dont know much either. But I did read somewhere that game DO run better on 2003 Server.

And the idea of 2003 running on just the server PC crossed my mind.....but I guess if 2003 is also better for workstations(and $5 more), I should just get it for all.

Oh, and by the way, congrads on graduating!

I did not graduate yet. *starts praying*
But it is right around the corner. I am currently in a winter intersession class..Anthropology.....8am-11am every day. Extremely boring.

[HAL9000]

Wait... if I'm reading you right here... you are looking at an OS for 5 PC's.... so five copies of XP Pro, but you have found Windows 2003 server 5 client access license for a bit cheaper than 5 copies of XP Pro. Take note this does NOT mean you can install that OS on 5 different PC's... it means you are buying a server OS to install on a SINGLE PC that you are entitled to have 5 PC's access the server.

[Colb]

Originally posted by HAL9000 Wait... if I'm reading you right here... you are looking at an OS for 5 PC's.... so five copies of XP Pro, but you have found Windows 2003 server 5 client access license for a bit cheaper than 5 copies of XP Pro. Take note this does NOT mean you can install that OS on 5 different PC's... it means you are buying a server OS to install on a SINGLE PC that you are entitled to have 5 PC's access the server.

Wow you just blew my mind

All I am looking for is an OS for 5 computers that will be networed together. A server is currently not needed but eventually will be added.


EDIT: Looking at it now, I see what you are talking about. It is not 5 single os's but 1 OS that will hook up to 5 clients.

[HAL9000]

Then you will have to go with the 5 copies of XP Pro.

[Colb]

OK, well that settles that.
Thanks.


Do I even need Xp pro for this? It is $60 more per OS than Home version.

[Nuclear Krusader]

Wise decision, since some games do not run in Win2k3.

[HAL9000]

Originally posted by Colb_Dog OK, well that settles that. Thanks. Do I even need Xp pro for this? It is $60 more per OS than Home version.

If you EVER want to setup a domain, then yes, you need Pro. Security and permission settings will be easier as well in Pro as to access them in Home, you have to boot to safe mode. If any of these things aren't going to be a concern, then ya, save the cash and go with Home.

[lil Jimmie]

I'd go with the XP Pro, I just got a copy of Server 2003, it's not really geared toward gaming and is really more than one needs for a game server not to mention the 5 CALs means that if you need more that 5 PC's to connect to it you will need to buy more CALs.

If this is for your biz then I'd say go PRO and put them on a domain and lock them down.

[Colb]

Security----This is the difference between FAT32 and NTFS, right?

From what you have just posted, I think I need to get Pro and learn how to use it.

[Nuclear Krusader]

Security, but also stability.

And also, more efficient space management. Something really useful with today's mammoth hard drives.

[Blakhart]

Security as in the skript kidz can't come into my shop and change my network settings, add/change system code, install things and so on as they're limited by permissions that are set. Pro is more strict than home in this respect, home takes more putzing around to make it tight.

[Nuclear Krusader]

True, another of the reasons I don't care about Home.

Gee, why do M$ aimed that version at "Home", when kids are more dangerous than hackers?

[doctorgonzo]

Originally posted by Colb_Dog Security----This is the difference between FAT32 and NTFS, right?

Both Home and Pro can use NTFS, which has security built in, unlike FAT32.

With Home, it is just harder to set security options and you seem to have less granularity. In Pro, everything is right there for you to work on, so it is easier to administer.

[CrazyMike]

Windows 2000 Pro has a licence for 4 computers, wouldn't XP Pro have the same deal?

[mrlucio]

Remember server licenses and Client Access licenses (CALs) are two different things.. If I am correct I think 5 copies of WIN2k3 are like $699 a piece in a corporate edition environment. 5 copies minimum. I would just buy everything OEM, make it simple. And remember every copy of any server OS you get 5 CALs with that copy. peace..