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It’s been years in the making, but Microsoft’s next server platform is finally in the stretch run and while it doesn’t appear revolutionary, it’s looking like the final release will deliver a grab bag of goodies to users looking to ease management, network and security issues.
But it isn’t all good news since Microsoft released in April the Beta 3 of Longhorn, now officially known as Windows Server 2008.
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Gone from the planned final release by the end of 2007 are highly touted virtualization capabilities, designed to move users onto the next level with the white-hot technology. Virtualization was originally suppose to be baked into the server but will ship separately within 180 days of the server’s final release. On top of that, in May Microsoft cut three features from what is now called Windows Server Virtualization, including a highly anticipated live migration option.
Even though users will have to wait for those capabilities, the Longhorn Beta 3 is feature complete, according to Microsoft, and comes with enough new features that IT executives will be forced to make a list of must-haves before they begin rollouts.
Windows Server 2008 is focused on three primary areas: management, including Server Core technology; security, such as BitLocker drive encryption and Read-only Domain Controllers; and performance, including a redesigned TCP/IP stack.
It also represents the gateway into the world of 64-bit-only server operating systems from Microsoft. The R2 version of Windows Server 2008 slated to ship in 2009 won’t include a 32-bit version.
In addition, the server is the other shoe that will drop on capabilities intertwined with Vista, such as Network Access Protection (NAP) and new Terminal Services features.
For IT architects at Quixtar, the top online retailer of health and beauty products, year-end is too long to wait and the company, part of Microsoft’s Technology Adoption Program (TAP), is running Windows Server 2008 in production.
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Comments (2)
Can't wait to try out Windows Server 2008By Anonymous on May 30, 2007, 11:28 amIt appears Microsoft is trying to compete with NAC/NAP appliances and solutions in their server. Also competing with SSL VPN appliances/solutions in a single box...
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Somewhat Phenominal -- NOT just Somewhat!By jake4pizza on June 6, 2007, 11:20 pmWindows 2008 Server is the FINALLY reaching the point where these Operating Systems should really be -- A TRUE OPERATING, NETWORK AND SYSTEMS OS. Windows 2008...
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