As part of a plan to give small businesses access to big
business solutions, Microsoft has unveiled Windows Server 2008
Foundation, what it hope will be a platform for business growth
among such SMBs.
Built specifically for small businesses with 15 or fewer users,
Windows Server 2008 Foundation is claimed by Microsoft to put the
reliability, security and manageability of the Windows Server
platform within the reach of all businesses at an affordable
price. Windows Server 2008 Foundation will be initially available
in 40 countries and Microsoft believes that it will provide small
businesses with the ability to
run business
applications and databases, host websites, and provide basic server
functionality such as file and print sharing and remote
access.
In order to emphasise the commitment of Microsoft to the SMB
community, chief executive officer Steve Ballmer commented: “We are
launching a new server-based solution…to give small businesses
access to the power of server-based business software.
Small businesses around the world have big business dreams and
needs.
“To support [small businesses] I am also pleased to announce
that we will donate a portion of the revenues of Windows Server
2008 Foundation to TechSoup.org and
Telecentre.org, two organisations
that focus on bringing the power of technology to nonprofits around
the world. We see this as an opportunity not only to deliver a
technical foundation for business growth but also to create a
financial foundation for community.”
In explaining its rationale for the launch, Microsoft said that
its goal was to provide a Windows Server-based solution for every
customer need, size and budget. As businesses grow, Microsoft is
giving customers the opportunity to upgrade to other versions of
the Windows Server family, which provide additional functionality
such as: integrated e-mail, simplified management, virtualisation
and other business-enhancing features.
Providing analysis on the move, Analysing Al Gillen, program
vice president of industry research firm IDC said, “Microsoft is
filling a crucial hole at the low end of its Windows Server
portfolio by delivering a simple, low-cost solution geared for
small businesses and first-time server users. Windows Server 2008
Foundation really rounds out Microsoft’s server platform and
provides a solution for a key market segment.”
Ready for purchase now, Windows Server 2008 Foundation will be
available initially preinstalled on servers from Dell, HP, and IBM
and Lenovo, each of whom will be able to set its own price. More
information on and details on how to purchase Windows Server 2008
Foundation are available at .