[school] If I needed to decide what Network Operating System to use where would I go

[Welverin]

In a class I'm taking we were given an assignment where we have to create a proposal for a company with no existing network or internet access and is looking to add one. Our group split things up and it’s my task to do some research on the (major) ones available and select one.

So my question to the knowledgeable here is, where should I go to do go? I have no previous experience, so a general “go here and search” probably won’t do me much good. Reviews with lists of advantages and disadvantages, including cost (of the software as well as licenses), support (tech, will the company be around in a few years). I need to be able to determine what is best for the imaginary company.

 

[gariig]

Errr What is a Network Operating System? Like what OS you will use on most of your servers?

Gariig

 

[Welverin]

Well in this case it will be one server, but basically yes.

The system will be connecting 35 pc's, needs to support VPN for 15 laptops, can't be down for more than four hours.

How this course has no prerequisites is beyond me.

 

[der_kluge]

35 PCs is child's play. I would go with Windows 2000 or Windows XP. Either would be good enough to handle that workload.

The other alternative would be Linux, but that's a bit more difficult to set up.

Unix would be out since they'd need a unix server to run that on, and that's big bucks for a company this size.

 

[gariig]

What die_kluge said. It's easier to secure than Linux.

 

[Welverin]

Thanks guys.

I'll need to be able to defend the choice, not only to my group but also to the professor. So I still need some articles to read up on each so I can make sure it's the right one and understand why.

 

[gariig]

Don't forget the high end Cisco router to do all that nice VPN's and a good firewall...

Gariig

 

[Enkhidu]

Best case scenario for a small company is to reduce TCO by going with Windows Small Business Server. It runs 599 right now for the Standard package and includes Exchange as part of the install. Licenses for Small Business Server connections will run a bit higher than other client licenses, but include both server and Exchange connections. Combine that with a simple Cable/DSL router with a built in firewall (depending on the type of business, you can go with a hefty or a light one - Cisco for the heavier end, a SOHO router from Best Buy or something for a lightweight one) and get Business class broadband from your local provider.

If you are looking to defend this one to the prof, head to microsoft.com and hit their Small Business Server website. Microsoft has TONS of material on exactly that topic.

Answering these kind of questions is one of the things I do on a daily basis, and the above works best for a small business on a tight budget.

Oh, and slap that OS on a HP/Compaq Proliant - head to the hp website and build one online.

 

[Welverin]

Enkhidu, that's what I ended up choosing.

We did the presentation on Friday morning (the class was really compress, Mon-Fri), and the professor said she was thought each group did a good job.

Thanks again.

 

[Aeolius]

We did the presentation on Friday morning (the class was really compress, Mon-Fri), and the professor said she was thought each group did a good job.

a pity... you should have looked HERE