Do you react the same way as most IT Trainers when a new release of Microsoft is announced? Here we go again, changing training material, updating existing skills, and also this time, where has Windows Explorer disappeared to?
The announcement of Windows 2000 was surprisingly under-played this time, was it because of the recent media attention given to Microsoft and it's future, or have they learnt from previous press announcements hyping Microsoft Windows stability before it truly has been tried and tested?
This time however, there are currently four different versions of Windows 2000 that need to be considered and it looks as though Microsoft's strategy is to deliver their common standards of working practice across all platforms in the computing operator systems environment.
Here is an outline to the differences between these editions of Windows 2000.
Professional: This is the upgrade for NT Workstation and is intended for use on business desktops and notebooks. Check existing computer specifications as this version needs great amounts of hardware usage. It is reported as being more secure and reliable than previous Windows versions.
Server: Aimed more at the small business or departmental use as this has basic file and print sharing capabilities and web-server capabilities. This can be installed to use up to four CPUs at any one time.
Advanced Server: To be used for larger networks and e-commerce applications by using multiple servers (up to 8 cpu's each). This means that the network can continue operation should one server break down.
DataCentre Server: Not yet released, but due very soon. This is aimed at the mainframe market, an extremely large OS designed to run mission-critical businss applications. Apparently you are asked to sit down before asking how much it will cost you.
Are you ready to take the plunge to upgrade? Reports have stated that Windows 2000 is practically crash-proof, if you believe this without testing it out for yourself, is a risk you clearly need to consider before going ahead.
