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General discussion

Setting up server to share Outlook data: Windows NT Server or Exchange 5.5?

Mar 15, 2004 9:11AM PST

I won't try to pretend I know what I am doing, but I have the responsibility of setting up a very simple server for a small (3 workstation) business. All we are trying to achieve is to share Outlook schedules and contacts.

I inherited a Dell server (PIII-700MHz) which has Windows NT Server version 4.0, service pack 6, build 1381 (I believe using the Backoffice 4.5). It was not set up properly and seems like a hugh overkill for our needs. I have access to Exchange 5.5 installation disks.

I need some advice on what to do next:
1. Can I switch to using Exchange 5.5?
2. Would I still be using Windows NT as my operating system?
3. What steps do I take to remove the existing server and change to Exchange 5.5?
4. How do I set up Outlook to work with the new server?
5. Or am I not taking the right approach?

I tried setting up Outlook today and sending email on the DSL. I couldn't get past the automatic name checking errors (even though I had cleared the option in Outlook).

Please give me advice (that I can understand and follow).

Discussion is locked

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Re:Setting up server to share Outlook data: Windows NT Server or Exchange 5.5?
Mar 15, 2004 10:24AM PST

I'd love not to reveal this to you, but NT 4.0 was left with a unpatched security issue by Microsoft. All it would take is for someone in the office to catch the right bug via EMAIL, Attachment or any other number of methods and your work could vanish.

IF you insist on such a risky platform, dive in with the knowledge that NT 4.0 is not "friendly" to administrate or setup. The answers are:

1. Can I switch to using Exchange 5.5?
If you have Exchange 5.5 and licenses.

2. Would I still be using Windows NT as my operating system?
You could.

3. What steps do I take to remove the existing server and change to Exchange 5.5?
Sadly, it's not a one procedure fits all affair. You may find books and kits that give you some education on administration and after that you might plunge into the effort.

4. How do I set up Outlook to work with the new server?
That's the easy part. No need to fret about this one. You install OL in Corporate Mode and it's painless.

5. Or am I not taking the right approach?
With NT 4.0? My opinion? No. But you may have no choice?

Bob

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For that small a network and the limited use you want ...
Mar 16, 2004 1:08AM PST

you can simply do it all through Outlook.

Open Outlook and click on the Help Menu. Select Microsoft Outlook Help and in the window that opens type in Share Outlook schedules and contacts

You can make use of Net folders and you can make use of the calandar's Free/busy settings.

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Microsoft pulls rug out from under us.
Mar 16, 2004 2:13AM PST

That feature is not in Outlook XP...

http://www.slipstick.com/outlook/share.htm also writes:
" this feature is more stable in Outlook 2000, but still not 100% reliable."

Since they haven't implemented this changeover, it's best we share that this approach is shaky.

Bob