I’ve been playing with the Windows2003 Server since Microsoft started handing out free RC1 Versions a year back. Have also been interacting with a lot of people who are working on itas test beds. And one very common view is ’’ It (windows 2003 server) has everything I could want and It has nothing that I want’’.
Ppl moving from WinNT Server to Windows 2003 server are going to get returns for each rupee spent on Windows 2003 Server. 2003Server has a lot to offer for these guys by means of Ease of Deployment and managing. Better out-of-the-box server security, a fresh lifespan, better support for Network Devices and software.
It definately is a lot easier to configure and manage 2003 server as it is to WInnt. The configure you server wizard does most of your initial work automatically. You can see that many of the unwanted most often exploited services are locked down by default so you dont have to go about configuring and tracking them down.
Personally Ive yet to find a V Imp feature in 2003 that I couldnt get in Windows2000Server. Its got Themes though. :). So your server doesnt have to be just a dull looking machine sitting on one corner or stacked away in the rack. You could have a XP-interface bright colorful icons and effects and looking good on the new 15’’ monitor you attach with it.
Now Im guessing that you arent going to be actually deploying the server LIVE anytime. And like me, you’re just opening it apart and having a look whats inside sorts. If you want absolute technical information (biased) I suggest you check out the Windows 2003 server site ie
https://microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/