Since the vast majority of small business prospects and clients that you encounter will likely be running some version of Microsoft Windows, it is a good idea to educate small business managers on the differences between the "current" versions of Microsoft Windows.

Versions of Microsoft Windows

Are your clients using the "right" version of Microsoft Windows? Below is some lists of different versions of Microsoft Windows your clients may be using in their small business network.

Consumer products (Home User)

Microsoft Windows 95
Microsoft Windows 98
Microsoft Windows 98, Second Edition
Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition (Me)
Microsoft Windows XP Home

Business Products: Desktop:

Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4
Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional
Microsoft Windows XP Professional

Business Products: Server:

Microsoft Windows NT Server 4
Microsoft Windows 2000 Server
Microsoft Server 2003

Eight 32-bit Microsoft Windows products have been used by small businesses since the mid-90s -- and thats just on the desktop side of the typical small business network.

Managing Expectations

It can be very helpful to understand some of the main differences between peer-to-peer and client/server small business networks. If you want to close the sale and gain a profitable, long-term client, its very important to educate your prospects and clients on key terminology while you work to manage their expectations from the very first conversation.

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