BIND/SMTP/DHCP Server sizing/Operating system question

[Randy Adams]

Hi.

Excuse me if this isn't the right fourm for this question.

I've been asked to implement a server to provide DNS, DHCP, and SMTP (not
POP or LDAP) services to approxomatley 400 nodes. The implementation will be
in an entirely private network, spread accross the country. The only
interconnection with the outside world will be via smtp. I already have an
SMTP infratsturcture, and want to just forward mail out to that system. I
cannot utilize any of my existing name, or DHCP servers due to security
reasons.

The nodes will either be stripped down Windows NT/2000 boxes with web
browsers, or some sort of thin client with an integrated browser. They will
be hitting a series of web servers to do administration of another system. 

The questions are these.

1) can/should I provide these 3 services on one box?
2) *If it were you*, would you fork out for a commercially supports hw/sw
combo, or would you 'trust' Linux?
3) Any reccomendations on processor/ram/disk requirements
4) What version on Bind is the most sercure/stable?


Thanks in advance for your feedback.

Randy Adams - MCSE
Network Manager
TELUS Communications Inc.
Technology & Operations
(403)503-3011

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