How can I set up a (proper!) home network, rather than a peer-peer network?

I want to control access centrally, and store all executables on one of the
computers as a server.

Do I need a different OS (Win 2000 Server), or can this be done on XP PRO?

Richard OT wrote:

You will need a server operating system (Windows Server 2003). Whether
you can run programs from the server (as in a thin-client setup) will
depend on the programs.

A great resource for learning all about server management is Microsoft.
Start here: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserversystem/default.mspx

Malke

This might do what you want, or at least achieve a fairly close
approximation: 

http://mylogon.net

Was originally written for data-entry situations, to allow any user to logon
at any terminal without needing roaming profiles. However, it's also quite
applicable to small networks, where it will allow you to have a 'real'
logon-prompt without going to the expense of a server-grade OS.

XP Pro will suffice as a server, provided you have less than ten users. 

When you say storing executables, I presume you mean running all software
from the server? If so, that is not really a feasible route with modern
software, which is too bulky and too tied-in to the OS to allow that.  Either
install the software locally and keep the data on the server, or else if you
want to have everything on the server, look towards a 'thin client' model.
That will cost though, as you will need a Terminal Server, and they don't
come cheap.

Cannot note browse web from client computer on simple network. NetBT problem?
XP Networking and Retrospect 6.5 Backup issue
How does one choose a domain name server?
lil file sharing problem on network
Set up a home workgroup with router
ipconfig /registerdns
Cannot connect to my ftp site
lock down available networks
Setting up Intranet
VPN error 800