Windows Essential Business - limitations/experience?

As you've already pointed out, the 300 user limit will be your major limitation, and if your not going to get to this, then Essential Business server is probably the most cost effective way to get the services you want.

The multiple domain controller issue has always been a common myth with SBS, you CAN have additional domain controllers with SBS, there recommended to provide fault tolerance. You cannot have another SBS server on the same network and I thing this is where the confusion came.

There are a few other limitations that you should be aware of, but are probably of limited concern:

• Components cannot be separated, the messaging, security and management servers and complete units and require a logical server each. The
• Your new Essentials Active Directory domain must be the root of the AD forest.
• No child domains or AD trusts are allowed

Microsoft SBS and now Essentials server products are an excellent way for SME's to get Enterprise level products for an excellent price and I would recommend them for anyone who can fit under the user limit.