Windows 2008 R2 New Features

I held a seminar on Windows 2008 R2 last week. In preparing for that seminar, I was able to learn about all of the exciting features in this new operating system.
64 Bit Only
The first and foremost change is Windows 2008 R2 is 64 bit only. You can not get a 32 bit verison. So, you will need to make sure that the server you are installing it on is 64bit.

Offline Domain Join
The second exciting feature is the Active Directory recyle bin. In the past if you deleted an item from Active Directory, you had to restore it from backup tapes. You know have the ability to restore a deleted item from the powershell command line. You do need the domain to be in Windows 2008 R2 functionality mode.

Windows 2008 R2 also has the ability to allow computers to join the domain without being online. If you have a computer that is Windows 7 or Windows 2008 R2, and you have the need to join it to the domain you can do it.

Branch Cache
Branch Cache allows for caching of files in a slow network such as a WAN. You can have a central file server and if you are in a remote location, accessing files can be slow. With Branch Cache you have the ability to create a cache on your local machine or a Windows 2008 R2 server. If you access a large file, it will come across much quicker. It will also be cached and anyone else who needs the file will have access to it without having to go across the wire.

Direct Access
Direct Access is an interesting feature that I need to test in our lab. Direct Access gives you the ability to connect to the Domain anywhere over a simple VPN tunnel. If you need a resource that is on your network, direct access will make a VPN tunnel and allow  you to get it. You need Windows 7 and Windows 2008 R2 to access this feature. It uses IPV6 and Windows Certificate services.

I have already deployed about 10 Windows 2008 R2 servers and I am overall happy with it. It seems to be very fast and stable. If you are considering upgrading, I would consider Windows 2008 R2 as an option.

Rebate for Virtualizing Servers

The State of Wisconsin has a very awsome program going on. They will give you a $250 dollar rebate for virtualizing server and desktops. The program runs until June 30th, 2010.

If you are considering a Virtualization project, this is something that can help you out.

I have listed details from the email I recieved on the subject.

announced on December 15, we have two new incentives targeted at the IT Energy Efficiency:


1. Server Virtualization - $250 cash incentive for each server virtualized

2. Thin Client Conversion - $60 cash incentive for each PC replaced with a thin client

To review all the requirements for our IT incentive programs, please read through our Information Systems Incentive Application.

We also encourage you to review the Focus Green IT Web site. This Web site provides information and fact sheets related to the programs we offer in three IT energy efficient categories:

1. Desktop solutions

2. Server solutions

3. Supporting equipment solutions

If you are thinking about a virtual server project, know might be the time.

You can always call us at 414-455-0719 and we can help or provide you more information.