Ok, now it's time to dive into Server 2008 and what you need to know before deciding when to migrate. First, a "laundry list" of key new features to be aware of. I've already explored many of these features in previous blog posts so please check them out. Or you can further explore the ones that may be unfamiliar to you, either on the broad Web or on the Microsoft TechNet Windows Server 2008 Technical Library:
• New deployment option with Server Core
• Server Manager integrated administrative console
• Better security with Read-Only Domain Controllers (RODC's)
• Group Policy improvements (architecture, settings)
• Improved administration with Server Manager
• Better deployment architecture (WDS, WIM)
• Synergies with Vista (look/feel; shared code base)
• Improved event logging & collection
• IPv6 installed by default
• Network Access Protection (NAP)
• BitLocker full volume encryption
• Service hardening
• PowerShell scripting interface
• Server virtualization (Hyper-V)
• User Account Control
• Windows Firewall with Advanced Security
• Reliability and Performance Monitor
• Server Manager
More to come tomorrow about the Product Versions & various requirements needed for Server 2008
See recent blog posts...
Windows Server 2008 Migration Considerations
User Account Control - Group Policy Damage Control
Printer Driver Installation Delegation & Hybrid Hard Disk in WS 2008
Glenn Weadock is a longtime instructor for Global Knowledge and teaches Windows 7, Server 2008, and Active Directory. He has recently co-developed with Mark Wilkins two advanced Server 2008 classes in the Microsoft Official Curriculum. Glenn also consults through his Colorado-based company Independent Software, Inc. and is technical director of MarketCoach Investment Education Software LLC.