Server 2000/Exchange 2000

Hopefully this isn't as confusing as it sounds in my head...

I have 7 workstations connected through an 8th computer that allows us to share files, printers, etc. (Not really a server.) All computers run Windows XP.

I am looking to getting Exchange because co-workers have expressed interest in using features offered by that software. In researching Exchange, I think I would need to have Server software to use it, right?

Could I use Server 2000 and Exchange 2000, even though I have XP on my workstations?

I can give any more details that are needed to get an answer...

Thanks!

Lisa

Hi Lisa,

Here is a link to Exchange Server Requirements from Microsoft website: Exchange 2000 Requirements

1)MS Exchange 2000 Server requires Windows 2000 series server software.

2) There shouldn't be any problems with Windows XP workstations connecting to an Exchange 2000 Server.

You said people connect to the "8th computer" to share files, but its not really a server. What type of operating system is currently running on that 8th computer?

Simon

The 8th computer runs XP also. We refer to it as our server, but I've been corrected by others that it is not truly a server.

Thanks for the response!

Hi Lisa,

Tkim's response is spot on (Win2K Server with Exchange 2000 Server) so this post is just to clarify what a 'server' is...

You are in fact correct to call your 8'th machine a server - A lot of IT professionals are parochial about operating systems and will not regard anything 'less' than Solaris or Win 2K etc as server software even though this is technically incorrect... A 'Server' is any computer providing files, services or applications to other computers on your network. A 'Server' can be loaded with any operating system (even DOS) - the definition lies in the use of the machine; not the type or brand of software you happen to have loaded on the box.

Rgds, Don

Thanks for that feedback, Don...In the past I have been made to feel like quite an idiot for referring to it as a server!