Windows, Mac, Linux, or . . . ?
Every computer needs an operating system, and servers are no exception. If you're resuscitating an old computer to use as a file server, you might be able to salvage the original operating system that ran on that computer, but connecting anything earlier than Windows 2000 or Mac OS X to your network could cause more trouble than it's worth.
If you have some experience with Unix or Linux or if you're willing to learn, one of these operating systems might be a better choice because they have up-to-date features and functions, and they won't demand as much processing power or memory as a newer version of Windows (a good introductory book will help get you started).
If cost is an issue (is cost ever not an issue?), many ...
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