Why upgrading to server 2008 R2
Still lots of companies are holding back the upgrade from Microsoft Server 2003 R2 to Microsoft Server 2008 R2. But companies have to be aware that the end of support for 2003 server is approaching faster then they think.
As of the 13th of July 2010 normal support on Microsoft Server 2003 R2 will end as from that time only extended support will be available.
So the top 10 reasons to upgrade are,
1. Hardware Improvements – Allows for up to 256 logical processors. Takes advantage of AMD and Intel Page Tables on their CPU’s, allowing for much improved memory management. The operating system is fully 64-bit processing. Hyper-V can access up to 64 logical processors, double the previous amount.
2. Reduced Power Consumption – Balances and limits power to the need of the workload. Adds Core Parking ability and enhances Active Directory power-oriented Group Policy settings.
3. Hyper-V Enhancements – Allows for Live Migration in milliseconds, invisible to connected users. System Center Virtual Machine Manager has additional management and orchestration scenarios. VM’s can add and remove storage without requiring a reboot, and also boot from VHD as well.
4. Reduced Desktop Costs – Virtual Desktop Integration (VDI) technology, which extends the functionality of Terminal Services to deliver certain business programs to their employee’s remote desktops. With VDI, programs are now available on the Start menu right alongside programs that are locally installed.
5. Easier Server Management – Improved power consumption, improved remote administration, and identity management features in Active Directory.
6. Managing Data – Storage is increasing at a 51% annual pace. The new File Classification Infrastructure (FCI) helps to manage this vast amount of data.
7. Remote Access Through Direct Access – New simple management wizards allow for a new direct access to configure SSTP and IPv6 across both R2 and Windows 7 clients enabling a Direct Access connection. With Direct Access, every user is considered remote all of the time, not requiring a distinction.
8. Improved Branch Office Performance – Windows Server 2008 R2 is now using a feature called Branch Cache which reduced WAN utilization and improves responsiveness for office users.
9. Simplified Management for SMB’s – Small businesses will find it easier to use Windows Server 2008 R2. GUI’s not hosted in a single interface, all based on Power Shell. Best Practice Analyzers will guide small businesses on improving certain practices. Easy to use Windows Server Backup Utility for backing up data.
10. Strongest Web and Application Server to date – with new Internet Information Services 7.5 (IIS 7.5) users will find improved performance for web and application use.
