How to get in as an IT Technician?

[daztrouk]

I've previously worked as a technician, although it was briefly and in a basic role. Overlaying windows, virus/spyware issues, backing up data, building systems etc etc. I've got some time on my hands and i really want to get into the networking side of things. Im good when it comes to your everyday user OS (XP,98 etc etc) , but i haven't got a clue when it comes to servers or their software, active directory, exchange etc. I was thinking about getting a cheap computer system, and setting it up as a server to have a play around with so i could learn the ropes. Is this a good route to progression? Or can i do the same thing using a package like vmware? Any other suggestions appreciated...