i've never heard of a Bacs ... not even a hint, sounds to me like he just doesn't want to have to install Windows2000 on all of your office machines.
Windows98 just is not cutout for Networked PCs, and XP Home isn't either - i would strongly suggest Win2000 if not that then XP Professional.
They'll both be simple to setup network wise and user wise.
They should also improve compatibility and performance as well as backup proceedures
Within the Epic battle of the fates the Shadow and the Angel will meet. With it will harbinger the very fight of good vs evil!