Migration from Novell to Windows 2000

The Problem

Delio and Peterson LLC, a New Haven law practice, was running a Novell 3.12 network with approximately 16 clients, multiple printers and a WinGate web proxy server. Support for Novell3.12 ended in mid year 2000 requiring either an operating system  upgrade or migration. 

The Solution

SNP migrated the Novell network to Windows 2000 network. For this purpose, a DELL server was purchased with all necessary software. Considerations in choosing to migrate to Windows 2000 rather than upgrade to NetWare 5.0 were: ease of administration; remote management; remote access and communication capabilities; intranet capabilities; and potential for internal and Internet messaging using Outlook as the mail client. 

In tandem with the server migration, software upgrades took place for client PC's including: updating  older versions of Microsoft Word to Word 2000 and an update of a database application to Paradox 9.0 from version 7.0.

Extensive documentation of the new network was afforded the customer. Complete server and client workstation configurations were recorded in an Access database specifically designed by SNP to document local area network configurations. Additionally, SNP assisted in the development of a procedure manual outlining routine administrative functions and contingency plans.

For on-going service of the network, SNP provided a plan for server and workstation maintenance and application support.

Tasks

1. Migration planning, server and desktop computers
2. Pilot testing of Paradox application and WORD Templates
3. Designing Active Directory structure
4. Network security and user groups.
5. Roll out and support
6. Network documentation

Core Technologies

Windows 2000 Server, Veritas Backup Exec software with IDR option, TrendMicro OfficeScan anti-virus software, Cisco Catalyst 2900 switch.