Server advice

In return for favors done I am offered a deal on software from an aquaintence who owns a computer business. This works for me for sure.

What I want to do is have all my four pc in the home see each other. Also one other pc is in our attached shop running quickbooks pos for its retail purposes. What I want advice on is what type of configuration and software would be the best way ( Not nessecarily the cheapest) to have the stores pc running not only its pos software but some applications that can be run from all the pc's elsewhere in the house.

We have begun learning some alternate languages so it would be convenient for each user to do so from the central installation where it backs up the database.

Shoul I go with something like Windows server 2003 or something else and under what type of configuration ?

Thanks for reading this long winded post.

 

What applications? I mean I kind of get what you are asking... but not really. I mean as far as servers goes 2008 is around the corner from MS. Or 2003 is just fine too.

You spoke of a database? what flavor?

 

Thsnks for the reply. Its a language program that installs withing itself MSDE 2000 Server to run its application so there is no need for an oracle, sql database or anything for that matter.

I know that windows 2003 is available and it can be set to auto backup the days info which is necessary.

Im ok with 2003. I have enough system to run it well and there are tons of places pick up tips on it.

It can also run the stores pos software.

The questions now are how to set it up. EG: active directory and such.