Glad to have you, Plague.
here is the SG4 Announcement thread:
http://www.dynaverse.net/forum/index.php/topic,163349577.0.html where you will find most of the answers you seek.
If you are having problems uploading 3.4, it is mirrored in several places. I'll try and post those links if someone doesnt beat me to it. As an alternative, consider this thread:
http://www.dynaverse.net/forum/index.php/topic,163350529.0.html Pestalence uses 3.4 in his enhancement pack. It should be called an add on, cuz thats what it is. It has a HUGE amount of material for OP from all sorts of corners of the universe. Doesnt mess with stock stuff, just installs 3.4, and adds all sorts of cool campaigns, missions, and stuff.
Quick answers to your questions: THIS forum, the Dyna 2 Experiences, is where we all meet collectively and discuss everything from the latest server stuff to the size of Kroma's G-string. So all the action, or lack thereof is here. There are 3 sides on SG4. GFL has a special invite to the ISC, but you are all free to play whatever side you want. On the side you choose, you may fly any race that side offers using multiple race accounts, but may not switch sides.
Currently there are 3x forum threads where advanced planning and such is being conducted. You dont have to choose a side yet and there is no signup. Ck out this addy for where advanced planning forums are:
http://www.bozobits.com/forumsSo basically, we use this forum, and the other for strategic planning. I'll try and find those other links. Hopefully someone will beat me to it.
Oh, and the test server will go up in mb a few days... I'll keep everyone up to speed on any downloads that we will have available when the time comes, as well as the website which will be up shortly.
Diz