Hi all you networking gurus and thanks in advance.

I got my WinServer2K3 trial copy yesterday and loaded it successfully. Now the hard part -- what type server! And please assume I know absolutely nothing about how to do this!

A) Is the cost of using WinServer2K3 after the trial period going to be too expensive compared to just using WinXP Pro? I'd not anticipate exceeding more than the 10 users WinXP Pro can handle.

B) What's the best way to set things up hardware-wise? Use a router or switch behind my cable modem and plug my main system and server into it?

My simple requirements, in priority order, that would dictate server type:

1)Network my only other system to my server. (See sig.)
2)Establish a firewall either at the server (prefered) or main system.
3)I don't need a shared printer or HD but would like to allow all valid users (remote family members ans close friends) to download and upload data/images/pics to/from the server. I've no requirement to provide website services.
4)Ensure that nobody can get to my main system, even those allowed to get to the server.
5.Will I need to apply and pay for a URL/domain name? How would someone get to the server without a URL/Domain name? Via IP addr?

I'm surfing the net to gain knowledge about networking and would be interested in your favorite "Networking 101" sites, thanks!