XP or Server 2003? advice needed

[Guest]

Hi, (currently running Win2KPro)
I currently run a soho that is a service business. We rely heavily on email, use of websites, etc with our clients. We have an offsite web site that on 1 page redirects back to my 2KPro box for client access to reports. I also host a website on the Win2K box for the car club I belong to.
I am hiring 3 off-site employees who will need to access applications we use on a daily basis. I've tried various vpn programs with very poor results (so slow, not feasible to use, I think due to employee being on a cable modem, because dsl tests were very responsive). I've been told I should consider upgrading to XP, or even go to Server 2003. Security is an issue as we handle private healthcare information.
1.) Anything I could do with Win2KPRO
2.) Can XP handle 3-4 people working off of applications?
3.) If I get Server 2003 (noobie in this area) I would have to get another box to run it on and then all of us would connect to it, correct?

Given the few details I've provided, what do you feel would be my best option?

Thanks!

Jim

 

[Abhijeet Nigam [MSFT]]

Hi,
Looking at your senario upgrading to XP will be OK
Since Windows server 2003 will costly and u dont require it with kind of
work is there
However If you are looking for a VPN connection for the offsite emplyees on
DSL
Then You can consider windows 2000 server or windows 2003 server
Where Windows 2000 server will be cheap and later on If the company's no.
of employees increases
You can look for an upgarde
and with windows 2000/2003 server you can look for a machine which can
have intel P4 or equivalent
with 512mb to 1 gb of Ram
If anymore suggestions
please elaborate the requirements

Abhijeet Nigam, MCSE,A+,CCNA
This posting is provided "AS IS" with no warranties, and confers no rights