Home Network and Windows 2000

I am in the process of becoming an MCSE with 2 exams left to take. I would
then like to start preparing for the accelerated exam and the 3 elective
exams. I would like the group's advice on what would be the most "real
world" setup to have in my office at the house and what software I would
need to purchase. I have seen the Windows 2000 Professional and Windows 2000
Server titles on the net and assumed I would need both.

As far as hardware goes, I have only one computer now-a Gateway {400 Mhz,
128 Mb RAM} running Windows 98. I would really like to leave this computer
as it is but I guess I could run Windows 2000 if needed although I am down
to about 400 Mb of free space on my C partition but have one partition with
1.8 Gig's free which is reserved for my GoBack bin.

I would prefer to stay under $2,500.00 on whatever I spend. I have looked at
Dell's basic unit for $899.00 {1 or 2 0f these} and I am guessing around
$600.00 for software.

I would like the group's opinion on how many computers I would need, the
best way to set these up as for as workstations/servers, hubs and or
routers, and software on each to get the most out of my studies. I also have
plans to study for CCNA.


Thanks for the Help!
Jeff Farrar

I would suggest that you try for a PDC, BDC, and at least two clients - one for each server. Of course, plan on running two subnet masks, and try to find a cheap bridge if you can. I would also suggest (after stabilizing the network) you crash the PDC, add some non NT clients, infect the BDS with a virus - just do everything normal users would do.

------------------
Time is a great teacher,
but unfortunately it kills all its pupils.

Thanks for the Ideas! I was thinking I would need 3-4 computers. I have 30-40 monitors that my dad bought in bulk for $400.00 so all I'll need now is 4 computers, Windows 2000 and Windows 2000 Server. I see that Server runs around $800.00 and Pro around $200.00. I'll have more in the software that the hardware-almost!

Thanks Again,
Jeff

[This message has been edited by farrar (edited November 06, 2000).]