No surprise: Win 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 are meant for each other

Alex Zaharov-Reutt
Monday, 10 November 2008 06:40

Opinion and Analysis

This is an important selling point, because to activate certain business features, you will need Windows Server 2008 R2, as it “includes technology improvements designed with Windows 7 enterprise users in mind, augmenting the network experience, security and manageability.”

So... the next few months are going to feature a blitz of Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 leaks, reviews, updates, betas, release candidates, Microsoft and competitor FUD over who has the best platform, Linux vs Windows face-offs, and the inevitable launch.

While Windows Server 2008 R2 is promised for a 2010 release, as was Windows 7, the WINHEC conference saw one Microsoft presenter confirm that mid 2009 is Microsoft’s preferred release date for Windows 7, something Microsoft had never publicly confirmed before, despite a number of “leaks” suggesting precisely that anyway.

So, while R2 is still promised for 2010, it seems likely Microsoft wants to get it out this year too – why delay 2008 R2 sales until 2010 when it can start making them in 2009?

We’re all yet to see, but the giant has awoken, and it’s going to do some serious stomping in the marketplace.

Linux servers, X server and mainframes – your time is now to make as much noise and as many advances as you can, or be drowned out by a wall of Windows coverage and Microsoft profits.

Meanwhile, Microsoft has much work to do to actually FINISH Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 - all the talk and pre-beta's are good, but where is the final product?

Especially with new versions of Linux coming at a rapid clip, Snow Leopard due in mid 2009 and no doubt a new version of X Server too... pre-beta from Microsoft are important, but even more so is the final product... and the inevitable service packs to come!