Hi there every one ok well to give some background of my self cause im new. My names Gary im currently a student in college pursuing a degree in Computer Information Technologies. Im not completely dark to understanding computers. What im curious about right now is Servers. I have an understanding of what they do. However in college when havent gotten vary far into this subject. Im looking to help set up a Server/ Network for a small community of mine at my church. We have a strong need in this community for the us of a server. I would like to get a better understanding on what I need to do. Iv been on the Microsoft website trying hard to read about setting of a Server. I currently run Vista on my computer and for the Dedicated server that we will use will run XP. Is this a good choice or do I need another OS for this. Also what kind of programs will we need. I read some info on server 2003 programs is this something I need or does the XP have the programs needed. Also I have a small understanding of VPN's this is the most crucial part of the task. Due to the fact that what im looking to do is link all the personal computers with in this community so that all will have access to this server and its contents remotely I plan on being the Network admin as I know the most of this topic in my community and am willing to computer to computer to make sure all have access.If any one can advise as to what steps need to be taken to make this work or what resources I can use to learn more this would be great. If you would like more explanation then please ask it would be help me greatly. Thank You.Thank You,Gary Grubb

Great question and use of resources! You might check out Microsoft's Small Business Server (SBS) product. Its just like the regular version but you get a lot in one package. VPN is addressed by a similar feature called Remote Web Work Place, and SBS also includes Exchange for your email and collaborationneeds. There is one catch- it limits you to 75 users, but that might be just fine for your enviroment... Anyway, there is a lot to say, but why dont you check out this link first: www.microsoft.com/sbs. then reply with specific questions. also feel free to email me for details.

Great thank you I will definitly sit down and read through this bit. I may have more questions to come. Does the SBS allow for expansion if that amount should grow larger then say 75 people. At the present I do belive that fits us perfectly.Thank You,~Gary

there is indeed a way to transition out of the small business server enviroment, if you were to grow. If you are close to this limit, it is generally not cost effective to get SBS if you are only going to transition out right away.