SmallBusinessNewz

Yesterday, Microsoft introduced its two new server solutions: Windows Small Business Server 2008, which is obviously aimed at small businesses and Windows Essential Business Server, which is aimed at midsize ones.

Being a small business publication however, we will just focus on Windows Small Business Server 2008.

This solution, which has been code-named "Cougar" through its development, is designed for businesses that have 50 PCs or less.

"There are 31.9 million small businesses and 1.2 million midsize companies worldwide in need of powerful IT solutions, and they typically have very small IT staffs, or none at all," said Bob Kelly, corporate vice president at Microsoft.

"Windows Essential Server Solutions make the benefits of enterprise-class IT accessible, affordable and simpler for smaller organizations and their technology advisors," he added.

Benefits for business owners and employees include:

- increased security

- simplified backup

- integration with Office Live Small Business

- integration with Windows Sharepoint Services 3.0

- support for latest Windows mobile devices

Microsoft highlights the pluses for IT managers:

For IT managers and technology consultants, Small Business Server 2008 deployment, setup and administration is greatly simplified and improved. A powerful administration console, new monitoring across servers and client PCs, Windows Server Update Services, and customizable reports - accessible from virtually anywhere - make management easier and more effective. Exchange Server 2007 delivers additional built-in protection, virtually anywhere access and management efficiencies. And Windows Small Business Server 2008 Premium Edition provides an ideal platform for critical business applications, because SQL Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 technologies now run on a second hardware server.

Windows Small Business Server 2008 is scheduled for general availability in the second half of the year, but those who wish to get a sneak peek at it can attend Microsoft's "Heroes Happen Here" event on February 27 in L.A. where it will be demoed on Dell systems.