…Overview…
  

System administrators like myself always want the latest technologies. With Longhorn still in beta and not yet a viable option many companies using the “One operating system behind” policy are now looking at upgrading to 2003 server. This is not a system I agree with as Windows 2003 server has been stable and better than W2k since service pack 1 in my opinion. As for Windows XP, it’s been out now and stable for a hundred years hasn’t it? Anyway, with all the hype regarding Windows Vista and Longhorn alot of companies are now looking at moving from Windows NT or 2000 to Windows 2003 server. It often begs the question from people in charge of finances of these companies “Why do I need to?” If their systems have been stable for the past few years they will need some reasons for upgrading. Here are my top 10 reasons to upgrade to Microsoft Server 2003.

1.) Security - There are plenty more security options built into 2003 server. With threats and viruses on the increase daily this reason alone is one for upgrading. You will notice this as soon as it’s installed with the enhanced security on Internet Explorer, the forcing of a policy for more difficult passwords etc. IIS also has improved security wise which was a must.
2.) Stability and Performance - This too can be a persuasive argument. You can expect on average a 20%-25% performance increase on Windows 2003 server over Windows 2000 for general use. There are performance increases in file system performance, Active Directory, XML Web Services, Terminal Services and Networking.  
3.) It’s easy - The Active Directory Migration Tool makes the process easier, copying users, groups and passwords while allowing the end user access to their resources and applications throughout. Also improvements to RIS (Remote Installation Services) make your deployment easier.
4.) 64bit versions available (Standard, Datacentre, Enterprise) - These versions have the same familiar interface and functions of the normal 32 bit versions.
5.) The ability to rename a Domain Controller or domain - This has always meant the removal of Active Directory. If any mergers or takovers are in the pipeline then it makes this a upgrade a must.
6.)   Cluster service supports up to eight-node clusters (only in Enterprise or Data Centre Editions.) - That’s eight servers (nodes) in constant communication with each other. If one goes down one of the remaining seven servers take over providing the service. The end user shouldn’t notice a thing.
7.) Ease of administration - There are loads more policies allowing you to nail down your desktops throughout your forest without complicated scripts or sending technicians to remote sites. Other cool things like the ability to select several users at once and change properties are also available.
8.) It’s fully supported - If there are problems with previous versions if you require extra functionality or there is a fault with the operating system it ain’t gonna happen. 
9.) Restoration Improvements - The Volume Shadow copy allows you to configure point in time copies of essential data for service restoration or archiving puposes. It allows users to retrieve invisible copies of their documents archived on the server. The ASR (Automated System Recovery) replaces the ERD (Emergency Repair Disk) and is greatly improved for better recovery in real disaster situations.
10.)  Better wireless support - You can ensure all access is authenticated and encrypted based on the 802.1 model.

For information on the different versions available please click here.