We just got a server set up for our office for MV and it is running great. We want to set up our system to be able to take laptops home and work from desktops off site. I am told from our account manager that a domain controller is not supported and can be unstable. Our IT guy wants to set everything up using a domain controller and getting firewalls set up to make it very secure for us. Is this an issue? There is just 3 of us working on MV and no real plans to expand in the next year or two with engineers. 

What has been recommended is a virtual machine and I was told by another IT third party company who sets up MV and Cabinet Vision for shops, we would need to invest into a "real" server not a desktop acting as one, and all this other complicated stuff and it seems like a huge pain to be honest and will cost several thousands of dollars. 

What is the best route to take? I want simple and easy. Ok with spending a few grand but not $6k+. We just need the ability to do modeling, drafting, maybe some work orders like 1 day a week.