1) there should be nominal differences - what is different is discussing the virtual network set up versus the physical network set up
2a) In my experience LAN configuration is more common as this more of a high availability solution oppesed to DR -
2b) Not necessarily you will need to make sure the appropriate ports are opened
3) I believe it is but you should bring all up to a consistent release as best practice
4) I would go with the newest release as long it has been out for a few weeks -