Microsoft drops Itanium on mainstream servers

Microsoft will no longer offer Windows XP 64-bit Itanium-based workstations. It will instead offer its "x64" hybrid 64/32-bit operating system mainstream servers and workstation.

Download this free guide

Software Updates: Our latest e-guide is available for your device. Download now?

See how operating systems are evolving with the help of continuous updates and learn about how the Spectre and Meltdown microprocessor flaws have led to improved, more secure processors being released and how Microsoft is evolving its Windows desktop operating system.

Start Download

• Corporate E-mail Address:

  You forgot to provide an Email Address.

  This email address doesn’t appear to be valid.

  This email address is already registered. Please login.

  You have exceeded the maximum character limit.

  Please provide a Corporate E-mail Address.

• • I agree to TechTarget’s Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and the transfer of my information to the United States for processing to provide me with relevant information as described in our Privacy Policy.

  Please check the box if you want to proceed.

• • I agree to my information being processed by TechTarget and its Partners to contact me via phone, email, or other means regarding information relevant to my professional interests. I may unsubscribe at any time.

  Please check the box if you want to proceed.

By submitting my Email address I confirm that I have read and accepted the Terms of Use and Declaration of Consent.

A spokesman for the company said, "Microsoft believes Windows for Itanium-based systems is a stronger offering in the high-end server market, and we will continue to promote and offer Windows Server 2003 Enterprise and Datacenter Editions for Itanium-based systems, intended for customers who require the highest levels of scalability."

But it is PC workstations and servers based on hybrid chips that offer both 64- and 32-bit compatibility that Microsoft is betting most users will buy.

Users requiring 64-bit technology for desktop applications will be offered Windows Server 2003 Standard x64 Edition and Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, operating systems designed to use the hybrid 64/32-bit processors from AMD and Intel.

Because Windows on x64 systems delivers excellent flexibility and choice it enables a smooth migration from 32-bit to 64-bit applications, the company added.