First of all, please ignore the "Processor Type and Ram Amount" I've entered - it's irrelevant to this question, but I had to enter something... We are an office of about 15 employees and are updating all our computer hardware. I would appreciate feedback on any issues regarding installing Win2000 Pro as against WinXP Pro. On top of this, Microsoft is bringing out yet another new OS in 2003... We shall probably be moving to Microsoft Windows Server 2003 from Novell, which we have now. All comments welcome, but I suppose the core question is should we just go for the latest OS (XP)?

What exactly are you updating? New machines? If so, they'll probably come with XP, so I'd leave it at that..

Hi, Jennifer, and thanks. New machines - yes. You're quite right, but the point of my query is that Dell are letting us choose. However, I think we'll go with XP anyway, unless certain of our staff wish to remain with 2000 Pro. That'll solve it, really, won't it? This'll save other folks needing to post.

Microsoft is not bringing out a new OS in 2003. Longhorn will be out in 2005.

Couple of things to consider... W2000 is now a stable, very good workable platform...everyone who has used W98 and others will take to this OS like a duck to water... XP Pro...do NOT even consider using XP Home...still has some bugs which are gradually being fixed with updates...it is a little faster on the boot up...but if you leave it in it's original GUI form, things aren't always where you expect them to be...your users will have to get used to a GUI that is "not quite right"... I work for a firm that supports networks for small business...and we install both OS's...it kinda depends on what is being used at the customer now... Being that you are getting all new Dells, and yes, on some models you still have a choice...if you get XP Pro, you won't have to worry about upgrading for maybe 5-6 years... Good Luck Steve

In my own opinion I would stik with 2000, Xp has too many bugs and is nothing but a headache in my office!!

I'd go Mac - no problems - no I.T. to work with - no blue screen of death - no headaches - no driver issues - no problems - no headahces....wait I'm repeating myself, then again, I think those things are an important aspect. If you can't go Mac because of specifics that require windows - I feel sorry for you (and me too - I have to use Windows) but I'd use WIN2000 PRO -just my thought Project Manager for A/D