I have been working with computers for a very long time and are familiar with all major networking concepts, so please do not think I am stupid when I ask this question. I was going to set up a small server for my home network (4 computers) and use it to validate logons and to store profiles of all my family members. all of the books that I have read or am reading say that a "domain server" has to valiadate logons. What is necessary for a "domain". I have a static IP address (cable modem). Is that enough or do I have to have something else like a an actual DNS name assigned to my computer (mycomputer.com)? This is never really explained and I'm hoping that my friends out in cyberspace will be able to help me! Thanks in advance.

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A ship in a harbor is safe, but that's not what ships are built for...