Headless Server

[Denrael]

I read on the web that Windows XP Pro can run in a headless mode. I've
got an XP Pro machine that I use as a server for my home network. I
currently have it set up for remote desktop, and that works fine as
long as I log on to that machine first on boot-up. If I don't, I can't
get a remote connection. I've tried booting with no video or keyboard
plugged in, but that has no effect. I am guessing that I have to be
logged in.

So, is this possible, or do I have to keep a monitor/keyboard
attached?

 

[Jeff]

Set up your winxp machine to automatically assume the
same user is logging on each time the machine is booted,
and this will allow the machine to boot straight into
windows upon startup, and will allow you to remote
desktop in and out.

You can select this in control panel -> users tab.

If you are doing this with the admin account, it would
definitely be a good idea to remove the keyboard/monitor
etc to prevent unwanted users.

 

[Rob]

this shouldnt be necessary, xp's remote desktop doesn't require a user to be
logged in before it starts. i've had zero problems with headless windows
server 2003 systems and xp shouldnt be any different in that regard (unless
there are some security settings that might need tweaking, but thats all i
can think of).