Like I said, Server 2012 Essentials sells for between $300-400 - less than half the price of Standard, but I understand your reluctance to pay more for your OS than you did the hardware, but I guess my question then is why not just buy a desktop PC - one that can and will run Windows 7/8 flawlessly and run circles around your old Dimension - for about the same price? I understand the adventure and challenge in a "project" like this - I do - but just know that this server will not have "PC" capabilities that you are used to in regular computer models.  The graphics, power, and upgradeability will be very limited, so the Windows user experience probably won't be much higher than your Dimension.  If you search the forums, you'll find people have run into issues with the small power supply when trying to upgrade and upgrading the power supply and memory. Now that you have it, try it out.  Let us know where you get stuck - maybe we can help. Good luck!
I am a Dell user since the beginning with stand alone units but have never had a server unit until now. I bought the T20 as an experiment and my first task is to install an OS since the T20 does not come with one when sold in Sweden. As a rookie I was thinking, is it possible to install Windows 7 or 8 on T20 instead of a VERY expensive Windows Server 2012? I have unused licenses for and thought this could be an opportunity to use them? I have only basic needs and will be the only one to use the T20. It will not be used as an ordinary server would be at least that is what I thought :-). If it is possible what can I do or not do with T20? What is the limitations? What do I have to add for certain and can I add equipment? Would appreciate an answer or with a link that could take me further. Regards Nils
An odd question - Poweredge T20 and Windows 7/8 ?