Eagle-eyed SuperSite readers will know that I first revealed the existence of this product back in December, though at the time I was under the assumption that Foundation Server was aimed at the R2 version of Windows Server 2008. That's not the case. It's here now:
The New Cost-Effective Technology Foundation
The proven and reliable technology of Windows Server Foundation provides you with a foundation to run most small-business applications. It’s an affordable platform for the core portfolio of IT capabilities, including file and print sharing, remote access and security. A simple and familiar Windows experience makes it easy for organizations to get up and running.
As the heart of a true local area network, Windows Server Foundation lets employees exchange data securely, without requiring e-mail or the Internet access. Additionally, Windows Server Foundation provides an easy upgrade path to higher-end versions of Windows Server, so your IT solution can grow as your business grows.
Windows Server Foundation can grow along with your businesses, providing the ability to upgrade to a higher-capability edition of Windows Server as needed. Easy availability of skilled manpower, compatibility with most hardware devices, and the peace of mind gained from running a genuine Windows-based server helps you achieve the highest return on investment.Why Windows Server 2008 Foundation?
Windows Server 2008 Foundation is designed to meet your needs better than traditional alternatives:
General purpose Server
Windows Foundation Server provides you with a dependable and affordable technology foundation for running your business applications as well as sharing information and resources. Being based on Windows Server 2008, you can run not only core infrastructure, terminal services and identity management solutions for your business – you can support you core LOB applications built on the simplicity and technical capabilities that Windows Server 2008 provides.
Provides channel convenience
Buying Window Server Foundation could never be easier. Windows Server Foundation comes pre-installed along with your server hardware saving you the efforts of separately procuring and installing the operating system on the server hardware. And as Windows Server Foundation is supported by an extensive network of trusted Microsoft partners, you can rest assured that your investment is reliable.
Make your first server investment
Ensuring your initial server investment is key to the success of your IT, Windows Foundation provides an ideal first server supporting your single-server network. Windows Server Foundation can be also deployed in a variety of ways to meet your needs – providing flexibility. Best of all, Windows Server Foundation is full upgradable to higher versions for when your business grows – the Windows Server family grows with you. You can know that your investment in Windows Foundation server will ensure you data and applications will be reliable, secure and provide room for you to grow as needed.
Windows Server 2008 Foundation Benefits
Windows Server Foundation, built on reliable technology, provides your organization with an affordable, easy-to-deploy foundation for running most business applications as well as sharing information and resources. Learn more about these core benefits below.
Business Value
Strengthen your business with a genuine, dependable and affordable technology foundation for running your business applications as well as sharing information and resources.
Low cost of purchase
Pre-installed, ready to use and genuine Windows Server for a very low cost of entry.
Lower combined cost of purchase, use and support.
Right capabilities for your business
Tailored to meet your small-business needs while delivering all the functionalities of a full server.
Provides the foundation to run business application and share information across a secure internal network.
When you buy genuine Windows, you:
Know that you are getting the most secure version of Windows Server Foundation available.
Are assured of greater peace of mind from authentic software that does not include unauthorized or harmful software, such as spyware.
Have the confidence that you got what you paid for.
Increase your productivity with free downloads, training, and other resources.
Have access to support from Microsoft or a trusted partner.
Stay better protected with the latest enhancements.
Get access to product support, resources and ongoing updates.
Simplicity
A simple and familiar Windows interface, compatibility with most hardware devices, and an easy upgrade path to higher-end versions of Windows Server make it easy to manage your IT needs.
Easy to purchase, maintain and support
Windows Server Foundation comes pre-installed along with your server hardware saving you the efforts of separately procuring and installing the operating system on the server hardware.
Windows Server Foundation is supported by an extensive network of trusted Microsoft partners
Solid foundation to easily grow your business
Upgradeable
Easily manage your Windows based network
Centrally manage settings on all your Windows based computers.
Simply compatible
Compatibility with most hardware devices.
Interoperability with other operating systems and applications.
Technology Capabilities
Run most business applications on reliable technology. Windows Server Foundation is an affordable platform for the core portfolio of IT capabilities, including file and print sharing, remote access and security features. As the heart of a true local area network, Windows Server Foundation lets employees exchange data very securely, without requiring email or the Internet.
And so on. The point seems to be fighting Linux in emerging server markets. But there's an in for enthusiasts as well. I'll be reviewing this exciting new product as soon as possible.