Even though I understand that there are substantial differences between the server software releases (ie: 2003, 2007, 2008 etc) the basic concepts should almost always be the same, correct?Is it possible fora person who cannot afford a server 2008 software, to resonably train on server 2003 software and be able to operate (or given a chance)in the standard commercial networking industry? I am very capable and self learning at this point, however I am trying to recognize my basics first before I start jumping head-first into subjects such as DHCP, TCP/IP, etc etc. I do not have the money to invest in a 800.00-1000.00 dollar software of which i'm going to solely use for non-commercial purposes such as home networking and self training. I suppose its also prudent to note that I am not in a current Administrator position at the moment and this is purely being done on my own initiative to get better and expand my current specialization (video conferencing) into something much larger (networking).Can anyone give me any guidance?

Hello,there always come new features and functionality within each new OS version. So with learning an old OS you can not keep track of the new ones. But i think you should do it as the company OS run and start with the next version where the company goes to in the future.You canuse for learning the trial versions, they are free:http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2008/en/us/trial-software.aspxhttp://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windowsserver/bb405947.aspxAlso you don't have to keep track on big hardware when you use Virtual server or Hyper-V to virtualize an environment.Best regards Meinolf Weber Disclaimer: This posting is provided "AS IS" with no warranties, and confers no rights.