One thing I know for sure: WIN2000 is the most stable System since WIN95 series. IT simply *****never***** locks up. And I know why: the hardware compatibility table for it is HUGE!!! If u have a Celeron 133 or a PIV 2Ghz it will run. AMD: ok. Even Seagate HDs run ok with it. And Seagate sux. In my University we have a huge server, that makes a "LAN" with the universitary hospital, the 4(FOUR) Campus(one in Curitiba - here, one in Londrina(300Km from Curitiba), one is the Hospital and one is a Experimental Farm). Everyting works with WIN2000. Everything runs smooth. In the main Campus, where I study and work, we have simply more than a thousand computers integrated: ranging from Student Accessible computers, Automation Labs, servers, UNIX, MAC... to our OWN internet provider. Everything(but MAC´s and so...) uses WIN2000PRO. If you can get a copy of it, get if. It may not be as fast as WINME - wich I have in my P2 400, but when it is ready, prepare yourself for the most stable Microsoft Windows experience ever. I have WIN2000Pro in my main CPu, the famous AMD 1200, 256ddr... It runs simply shiny. UT: perfect.
CS: perfect. WORD: perfect. When I use eDonkey - to make some downloads - it does not even slows a bit. The memory refresh system is perfect.
The only still w/o solution problem I found was in my ASP converter. It does not work ´cause of a filter. Just that.
BUT: I always got the actualizations and so, WIN2000Pro simply will not crash, lockup, slow down, show you a Blue Screen, never.
I like it. Many of my friends and Teachers still prefer WIN98SE. Their computers are much like mine - high end, gaming propuse, with typing machine integrated. I just liked to try out WIN2000 and I liked it. It took a while, but now it´s fine. If u have the minimum requirements - 1Gb HD...(!!!!) , give it a try. I gave a try to WINMe: it´s the best thing for girl: fast and not complicated. Locks sometimes, but nothing u cant undo with system restore.
Win2kPro is for pro... Awesome. I prefer it over Linux, ´cause Linux is somehow a little hard and lacks many stuff. Windown may have it´s flaws, but is still the best.
PS: I´m almost an Computer Engeneer, so I know what I´m talkin´bout.