Foreword

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There is no doubt in my mind that Exchange 2003 is the best version of Microsoft's e-mail server yet. Exchange 2003 is packed full of new features, some of which exploit the underlying functionality of Windows 2003 and IIS 6.0, and it incorporates many upgrades for features introduced in Exchange 2000. However, the new and improved functionality demands extra work on the part of administrators, who must understand and then cope with items such as Outlook Mobile Access, advanced connection filters, query-based distribution groups, and so on. It is great to have this problem because the new features add value, but sometimes it can be a challenge to understand just how to take advantage of new functionality.

Mike's book builds on his previous volume covering Exchange 2000. It provides a practical step-by-step guide for administrators through common (and some uncommon) tasks. Mike's experience working with Exchange comes through, and everything is set out in a straightforward manner.

A book is a snapshot of someone's experience at a point in time and cannot-ever be a totally accurate depiction of how you should approach a subject.-It would be impossible for Mike to provide you with a customized view of how you should administer Exchange 2003 servers in your own environment, simply because it is your environment. No one but you understands the unique pressures and joys that arise from the operating systems, applications, and people that surround Exchange 2003 in your company. Take the knowledge contained here and adapt it to your situation. Build on it with your own experience and expertise to generate maximum advantage, and never assume that things work exactly as described here. There's a fair chance that they will, but service packs, hot fixes, new versions, and the unique characteristics of your operating environment conspire to make it impossible for an author to be always right. Despite this challenge, I think Mike has combined enough information and insight for this book to be an invaluable tool for Exchange administrators, and I hope that you enjoy reading and using it as much as I have.

Tony Redmond
Vice President and Chief Technology Officer
HP Services
November 2003

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