2k is the standard of all ms based servers. XP is entirely based off 2k. The only difference revolving around the dos console in the two are xp has a SCROLLBAR!

windows 2000 === NT 5.0
windows xp ===== NT 5.1

They are almost the same, the differences are mainly in their gui.

2k loses in the security compared to linux though, and xp as i just said has compatibility issues so thats why I still use 98 SE and linux. for my ftp server, linux was the obvious choice over win 2k..
linux's security features along with a good router have allowed me to run my ftp for years w/o a hitch...

I run an ftp.. Serv-U is very secure and considering I'm on windows, very stable [program never crashes, xp stays up for weeks]..

As far as firewalls go, I have a linksys router to network my comps, so very few ports are open..

sounds like you have your marbles together, gamer
if you wish, we can trade our ip's and passwords.
e-mail me @ chesshire@hotmail.com if you feel inclined to do so.