Although it was released earlier this month, Microsoft has announced official the launch of Windows Server 2008. As its predecessor, Windows Server 2003, today's release intends to be a success.
Windows Server 2008 brings new features and enhanced functionality. A new installation option called Server Core permits Windows Server 2008 to be deployed in a cut-down mode to serve one of eight specific server roles: file, print, DNS, DHCP, Active Directory, LDAP, virtualization, and web (IIS).
Another important feature is Hyper-V, the new virtualization platform. It is still in beta for the moment, but Microsoft plans to deliver the final version within 180 days. Hyper-V has its own API to allow developers to create tools that extend the core functionality.
Windows Server 2008 is available in five versions plus three which include Hyper-V:
- Windows Server 2008 Standard
- Windows Server 2008 Enterprise
- Windows Server 2008 Datacenter
- Windows Web Server 2008
- Windows Server 2008 for Itanium-based Systems
Here is the pricing list for the eight versions:
- Windows Server 2008 Standard: $999 (with five Client Access Licenses, or CALs)
- Windows Server 2008 Enterprise: $3,999 (with 25 CALs)
- Windows Server 2008 Datacenter: $2,999 (per processor)
- Windows Server 2008 for Itanium-based Systems: $2,999 (per processor)
- Windows Web Server 2008: $469
- Windows Server 2008 Standard without Hyper-V: $971 (with five CALs)
- Windows Server 2008 Enterprise without Hyper-V: $3,971 (with 25 CALs)
- Windows Server 2008 Datacenter without Hyper-V: $2,971 (per processor)
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