Microsoft has unveiled theWindows
Essential Server Solutionsfamily of products,
which aim to make SMEs become more productive and support their
growth.
The offering is built on
Windows Server 2008 and is supported by the newest Microsoft
server technologies and services. As part of the launch, the
company has revealed details about the newly named Windows Small
Business Server 2008.
The Windows Essential Server Solutions family includes Windows
Small Business Server 2008 and Windows Essential Business Server
2008 for mid-size companies.
The products integrate the technologies of Windows Server 2008,
Microsoft Exchange Server 2007, and other Microsoft products and
services into all-in-one sytems that are easy to manage, Redmond
said.
Windows Small Business Server 2008, previously known by the code
name "Cougar," is designed for organisations with up to 50 PCs,
helping them protect business data, expand business productivity
and present a professional image to customers.
The new version adds a range of features and capabilities to the
current Small Business Server 2003 R2 product.
Small Business Server 2008 provides increased security and
protection with simplified server and PC backup technologies, and a
one-year trial subscription to Microsoft Forefront Security for
Exchange Server Small Business Edition and the new Windows Live
OneCare for Server.
Small Business Server 2008 also integrates with Microsoft Office
Live Small Business to simplify set-up and management of
professional websites and private online work spaces.
Enhancements to Remote Web Workplace, integration of Windows
SharePoint Services 3.0, and support for the latest Windows Mobile
devices will help employees work remotely and collaborate
effectively, Microsoft said.
Windows Small Business Server 2008 will be demonstrated at the
Microsoft "Heroes Happen Here" launch event on 27 February in Los
Angeles.
But it will not be available to buy until "the second half of
2008", Microsoft said.
Windows Essential Business Server 2008 for mid-size companies is
designed for the needs of organisations with up to 250
desktops.
The system includes built-in IT best practices and provides a
unified console for the management of key workloads and product
licensing, which is designed to make IT budgeting and purchases
simpler and more predictable.
Windows Essential Business Server combines the technologies of
Windows Server 2008, Exchange Server 2007, Forefront Security for
Exchange Server, System Center Essentials 2007, the next version of
Internet Security and Acceleration Server and, in the Premium
Edition, SQL Server 2008 technology.
Again, this platform will not be available until the second half
of the year.