This is not a Knoppix answer. But if you are serious about using Linux with a Windows domain and don't mind paying a little($40) then take a look at this excellent Debian based distro.

http://www.desktoplinux.com/articles/AT4559768996.html

To just browse Windows network files but not actually join the domain this is possible in Knoppix. But I have never had to do this so I have no expertise here. Isn't this what Samba does?