Kurt Shintaku's Blog

Microsoft has just released a beta version of Windows Server 2003 R2. This new release makes it easier and more cost effective to extend connectivity and control to identities, locations, data and applications throughout and beyond an organization. Windows Server 2003 R2 is an update release of the Windows Server 2003 operating system. Built on Windows Server 2003 with Service Pack 1, Windows Server 2003 R2 takes advantage of the stability and security of a proven code base while extending connectivity and control into new areas. Windows Server 2003 R2 offers all the benefits of Windows Server 2003 with SP1 while greatly improving identity and access management, branch server management, storage setup and management, and application development inside and outside an organization’s boundaries. Windows Server 2003 R2 is designed to be slipstreamed into existing Windows Server 2003 environments without re-testing or re-certifying existing roles or applications or upgrading to new Client Access Licenses, easing administrative burden and simplifying deployment and adoption.

Windows Server 2003 R2 builds upon the increased security, reliability and performance provided by Windows Server 2003 with Service Pack 1 and demonstrates our commitment to continuously improving the Windows Server platform.  Windows Server 2003 R2 is scheduled for availability in the second half of 2005. Customers with servers covered by Software Assurance or Enterprise Agreements will be eligible to receive R2 at no charge. After R2 is made generally available, customers will receive it automatically when ordering Windows Server 2003 software. All others can purchase the server license to get the R2 functionality.

BETA SOFTWARE:  http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/R2/trial/default.mspx