Re: Workgroup limitations?

From: Bruce Chambers (bruce_a_chambers_at_h0tmail.com)
Date: 02/16/05 

Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 19:49:40 -0700

Johnathon Johnson wrote:
> Hello, is there a limit to how many PCs can be networked via workgroup?
>
> I am adding PCs to a workgroup (office group), I know that we should start a
> domain, however the boss says no.
>
> There were 13 PCs, I am adding 11 more. I am getting an error, when looking
> at workgroup PCs in Network Connections, that tells me there are too many
> connections accessing that PC (whatever that PC is).Can I turn off file/print
> sharing on all PC except a few to fix this?
>
> Sincerely, J

        By design, the optimum size of a workgroup is 10 to 12 machines.
Beyond that number, network performance starts degrading noticeably and
the administrative head-aches start growing exponentially. Further,
WinXP Pro, like WinNT and Win2K, will allow a maximum of 10 simultaneous
connections. WinXP Home allows a maximum of 5 simultaneous inbound
connections.

        For the number of machines you will have, you really should look into
Small Business Server 2003; it includes Exchange, as well as 25 Client
Access Licenses (CALs). 

-- 
Bruce Chambers
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