WINS and DNS question

[billman 0]

Hey guys, I'll try to make this short and sweet. I'm getting ready to do some networking of remote locations into a central PDC, but before I do any of that, I need to get the PDC up to speed. First of all, what is a WINS Server and why would I need one (This PDC has 6 computers already on a LAN)? The guy before me never did anything with WINS or LMHOSTS, so I'm wondering, what do I need to do to get these things set up? Also, why would I need a DNS server? What good would it do me and how would I set it up? Any help you can provide is extremely appreciated.

 

Bill Roland

[clutch 1]

Something tells me that you are in for a rough ride on this one. These methods are used for the translation of "friendly names" into usable IP addresses. A WINS server is used to translate NetBIOS names into IPs (i.e. PC1 into 192.168.1.10). A DNS server is used to translate Domain names into IPs (i.e. ntcompatible.com into 216.247.236.119). There is a lot more that you might want to know before you set out to decide which way you want to go. I would recommend that you get a book on NT server first, and then form an opinion on your own. I can tell you that WINS is a lot easier to setup, and it works great for small to medium sized networks. In addition, you may have to find out if you are going to need to replicate the databases between the remote and primary networks.

[billman 0]

Ok, thanks for the clarification. I'm gonna want to do WINS, and I will have 3 BDCs at 3 different remote locations running LANs...so, will I want to use WINS for this? Also, will WINS speed up network browsing, right now it is very slow? Thanks again.

 

Bill

[clutch 1]

Yes, WINS will speed up browsing. But, you have to keep in mind that the servers will need to replicate this same info that makes browsing so great. I think that the assistance you need is beyond the scope of this NG. If you would like, you can email me on this subject.

 

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Regards,

 

clutch