Basic Connectivity

[Previous] [Next]

Now that you understand the differences between the security models of Windows 2000 and UNIX, let's look at how they are compatible. For one thing, with no additional add-ons, Windows 2000 coexists reasonably well with UNIX servers. The default networking protocol for both operating systems is now the same—TCP/IP. They can easily share DNS, DHCP, and other services. And simple connectivity between Windows 2000 and UNIX can be handled by FTP and telnet clients on the Windows 2000 machines.

File Transfer Protocol

All versions of Windows 2000 include a simple FTP command-line client and can handle FTP from within Microsoft Windows Explorer to a limited extent. The character-mode client provides no frills but should feel quite comfortable to the UNIX user—and it works without quirks. Those who want a more graphical and friendly FTP client have a variety to choose from, including some that are pure freeware or shareware. Our personal favorite is WS_FTP Pro from Ipswitch (http://www.ipswitch.com). Windows 2000 also includes a full-featured FTP server as part of the Internet Information Services (IIS) suite. With both an FTP server and a client natively available, you can easily copy files between the UNIX and Windows 2000 machines on your network.

Telnet

All versions of Windows 2000 come with the new character-mode telnet client that debuted in SFU. The frankly horrible semigraphical telnet client that had been around since Microsoft Windows 3 is finally gone. The new client is faster, has better terminal emulations, and is actually quite decent for most uses. It supports American National Standards Institute (ANSI)—including color, VT52, VT100 and VTNT, a special emulation that can be useful when running character-mode Windows 2000 applications such as Edit. If your need for terminal emulation isn't met by one of these modes, there are excellent third-party commercial telnet clients available.

Windows 2000 Server even has a built-in telnet daemon, or server. This server is the excellent one shipped as part of SFU, but it's limited to two simultaneous connections.