[fobside]

Could someone please point me to some information on placing a Mac onto a Windows network? My friend asked if I could help him out. I am not sure exactly what kind of network we're talking about here. My guess is that it's a network of computers with a few Macs. There will probably be a central server, various workstations sharing files, and a printer. I don't know if the printer will be hooked up to its own network connection or shared through a Windows workstation.

If you happen to know any information that might be helpful to me, it would be much appreciated.

[fobside]

Okay, I have some more information on the job.

PRINTING:
The company is using JetDirect, which is HP's printer networking software/hardware. It's a box connected to the printer. Basically I believe it should function like a printer with a direct LAN connection. I've never actually networked printers before. How would I got about doing this?

EXCHANGE SERVER:
I have never used Outlook for Mac. Am I correct to assume there should be no problems connecting to an Exchange server and using the same functionality that Outlook on Windows offers?

FIREWALL:
I need to select a firewall that will allow Macs to connect through a VPN. I am not familiar with VPNs unfortunately so I don't know where to start. Can anyone recommend a firewall to use and perhaps point me to some information regarding VPN on Mac?

[ghporter]

I can provide a little help/confirmation for you.

JetDirect products do indeed allow a parallel-only printer to behave as if it has its own network card. Generally, you simply need network-compatible drivers for the printer in question to be able to use it via the network.

Though there are some configuration and feature differences, Outlook for Mac should have no problem sending and receiving mail through an Exchange server.

Can't help you with the VPN issue. Sorry.

[fobside]

Thanks for the reply. Does anyone know if Outlook for Mac will allow the calendar/scheduling functionality as well?