Introducing the Windows Essential Server Solutions Family of Products

Today Microsoft is announcing the Windows Essential Server Solutions family of products.  The family includes Windows Small Business Server 2008, formerly known as code name "Cougar" and Windows Essential Business Server 2008, formerly known as code name "Centro".

Windows Small Business Server 2008 is built upon Windows Server 2008 and includes:

  • Windows Exchange Server 2007
  • Windows SharePoint Services 3.0
  • Enhanced Remote Web Workplace
  • One-year trial subscription to Microsoft Forefront Security for Exchange Server Small Business Edition
  • One-year trial subscription to the new Windows Live OneCare for Server

SBS 2008 Premium also includes SQL Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 to run on a second server.

Windows Essential Business Server 2008 is built upon Windows Server 2008 and includes:

  • Exchange Server 2007
  • Forefront Security for Exchange Server
  • System Center Essentials 2007
  • Next version of Internet Security and Acceleration Server

Windows Essential Business Server 2008 Premium Edition includes SQL Server 2008 technology.

WESS Family_Diagram

Please note that Windows Small Business Server 2008 is designed for organizations with up to 50 users, but will support organizations with up to 75 users.  Both Windows Small Business Server 2008 and Windows Essential Business Server 2008 are designed to run on 64-bit hardware.

For more information please see the official press release at https://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2008/feb08/02-20EBFamilyPR.mspx.