Windows Server 8 guide

Windows Server 8 is approaching. Find out everything IT shops need to know in considering the server operating system expected to release in 2012.

Windows Server 8 Windows Server 8 might be years away from widespread adoption, but it's a good task for any IT pro to learn about the potential benefits the operating system can bring to an enterprise.

With improved virtualization capabilities via Hyper-V 3.0 and its live migration features, plus Windows Azure integration that enables moves to the cloud, Windows Server 8 marks an important and substantial change in Microsoft's server strategy.

In this guide, you'll learn all about the laundry list of features Microsoft has planned (and which are the most important), how Hyper-V 3.0 compares to other established virtualization options, Windows Azure's upgraded role and more.

Table of contents:

Feature overview

Windows Server 8 beta brings improvements over Developer Preview
What has changed since the Developer Preview of Windows Server 8? Find out the most interesting new features in Microsoft's latest server release.

Microsoft releases first Windows Server 8 beta with new features in tow
Microsoft delivered the first Windows Server 8 beta to admins containing dozens of enhanced features across the product.

Talking server development with Mike Neil
Mike Neil, the man tasked with delivering the next version of Windows Server, explained why it was important to get IT shops' opinions during development.

Anticipated changes come to Windows Server
A preview of Windows Server 8 hints at Microsoft's wide-ranging refocus on the cloud and storage.

The best five features in Windows Server 8
With Hyper-V replication, Windows Server 8 will deliver on the expectations of IT pros.

Windows Server 8 aims to the cloud
Windows Server 8 is seen as a leap into the cloud space, but can it fulfill on that promise?

Virtualization gets a boost

Desktop virtualization in Windows Server 8
Remote Desktop Session Host will have built-in support for RemoteFX, giving admins a way to deliver HD remote desktops without using third-party protocols.

What's new in Hyper-V 3.0
Advanced live migration features have pros interested in virtualization looking at Hyper-V 3.0.

How live migration in Hyper-V 3.0 will be good for small shops
It has its limitations, but shared-nothing live migration in Hyper-V 3.0 will improve small IT shops’ planned maintenance.

Cisco switch will support Hyper-V 3.0
Cisco will support Windows Server 8 Hyper-V with its Nexus 1000V virtual switch.

Integration with the cloud

Windows Server 8, Azure: better together?
Windows Server 8 and Azure will work in concert to deliver enterprises future applications, with the cloud as a backend.

The latest developments in the Azure/Server paring
Will the latest version of Windows Server and Azure make cloud development easier?

Improved security

How Windows Server 8 can help with compliance
Microsoft's new server OS brings risk management improvements – but look deeper, and the picture gets a little cloudy.

Patch management upgrades: too good to be true?
New patch management upgrades have found their way into the feature list of Windows Server 8. However, will it really make a difference?

Server Manager

Server Manager's affect on workflow in Windows Server 8
While the redesigned Server Manager console have positive effects on productivity, IT admins need to be aware of some changes.

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