webdork
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Windows Domain Network
I want to network 6 computers (XP Pro and Win 7 Pro). Can I set them up as a domain without a server OS in the system?
Can you point me at a kb article?
Can you point me at a kb article?
motnahp00
No, a domain requirement is a DC.
ASKER
what is DC?
ASKER
Domain Controller maybe? No DC add on for WIn 7 Pro?
No. For a domain, you need a domain controller. However, you can upgrade your XP machines to 7 pro and use the "HOMEGROUP" option.
Yes, DC = domain controller. You install the AD DS role on a server.
If the needs are very small, elect one machine as the central machine and keep files on it. Network the other machines to it.
If your needs are larger, small SBS servers are not expensive, come with a Domain and Domain Controller, Active Directory and User file management. If you can afford it, this is the best way hands down. There is no such management in a workstation (others have already pointed out no Domain Controller). .... Thinkpads_User
If your needs are larger, small SBS servers are not expensive, come with a Domain and Domain Controller, Active Directory and User file management. If you can afford it, this is the best way hands down. There is no such management in a workstation (others have already pointed out no Domain Controller). .... Thinkpads_User
I agree with Thinkpads_user, SBS (Small Business Server) is an EXCELLENT option. What do you hope to gain by creating a domain? Is it for managment and control?
ASKER
Didn't know it would be so complex. Don't want to upgrade the OS on the XP workstations. Do I need domain network? What are advantages?
My network objectives are file and printer (standalone) sharing and intranet running .NET application.
My network objectives are file and printer (standalone) sharing and intranet running .NET application.
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As airborne1128 stated, you will be fine with a workgroup configuration.
Windows 7 Homegroup uses the public folders; not any folder. So yes, if you do not want a server and you do not want to upgrade all the machines, select one machine and make sure there is a folder (probably a root folder) that has permissions to the users.
Using a User folder (My Documents) leads to further complexity because of userid restrictions.
Do you need a domain? Probably not, but you are stretching things with 6 computers. SBS gives many advantages including user control which is why we suggest it.
.... Thinkpads_User
Using a User folder (My Documents) leads to further complexity because of userid restrictions.
Do you need a domain? Probably not, but you are stretching things with 6 computers. SBS gives many advantages including user control which is why we suggest it.
.... Thinkpads_User
ASKER
Good idea airborne1128. Can I still do a intranet?
Please look at my next Q:
https://www.experts-exchange.com/questions/27729405/Local-Intranet.html
Please look at my next Q:
https://www.experts-exchange.com/questions/27729405/Local-Intranet.html
Yes you can, as long as permissions are correct. You will also need internet connection sharing I believe.
Workstations do not do intranet so far as I know. They just supply file sharing. Even printers are best networked and not shared.
Your needs are looking higher and higher, which may lead you to a small SBS. If you do select a workstation approach, remember it is not a server and will not work like one.
.... Thinkpads_User
Your needs are looking higher and higher, which may lead you to a small SBS. If you do select a workstation approach, remember it is not a server and will not work like one.
.... Thinkpads_User