Here is the problem, I have supplied the boss man holding the company credit card with 3 quotes for a new Windows Server with enough licenses to support the number of staff members properly, however he has flat out informed me the price tag is too high and to find a way to lower it. Now unfortunatly since the hardware is not going to decrease in value just because I want it to, that leaves me with the software and licenses.

I have been doing a little research online for alternatives to a Windows Server and have already ruled out a Mac XServer since it cannot support workstation management or roaming profiles. I have also installed SME Server on a old box I got laying around but have hit a wall with its capabilities as far as I can see and what I would like for it to do. (Or maybe I am just reading the wrong documentation). I am also looking into Novell as an alternative although I do not daught it has changed drastically since my courses in 2001.

Basically, this is what I am looking for in regards to capabilities:

*Roaming Profiles (Desktop settings, email settings, emails, webpage favorites/bookmarks etc.) – if this means I need a login script that tells windows to backup all settings to a users home directory on the server and then restore on logon I am ok with that.
*Domain User Management (logins, passwords) – A no brainer but still much prefered then creating each user on each individual workstation.
*File and Print Sharing (network drives mapped to each profile with full control on who has access to what)
*Ability to set program access and control for user groups such as who can uninstall and install on the local workstations
*Remote desktop management (for pushing software packages down to workstations. ie. Software updates, new programs etc…)
*Ability to setup a new user from scratch so that when he logs in for the first time to any computer on the network he is all setup with access to the dealerships software, email through outlook express and anything else I need to set.

I know most of these things can be done with Windows Server, with the exception of the Outlook Express settings I think, however since the boss wants me to cut corners I come seeking help.

I have heard of OpenLDAP but have not been able to find any information if it will be able to do all that I require. I have also heard of Mandriva software package that has several components that will work together, however since my knowledge in the way of Linux/Unix is rather limited, I would prefer to hear the thoughts of more experienced Network Admins to make this decision.

So if you have any suggestions please let me know. I apologise for my ignorance, however I fully admit it and am open to suggestions and helpful advise.

Thank you for your time.