Microsoft Small Business Server 2008 will be released on November 12. Veterans of SBS 2003 are finding many things to like in the new version; I’ll have more to say about it in the next few weeks. Here’s an early look at the features and changes in SBS 2008.
At about the same time, Windows Live OneCare will be upgraded to version 3. If you already use OneCare, the new version will presumably be sent to you automatically, it will restart your computer, and it will cause enough glitches that I’ll be busy on the phone for a few days. I don’t have any details about the new version yet but I’ll keep you posted about what to expect.
(Loyal OneCare users – I’ve spent some time in the last few days with the latest security suites from Symantec/Norton, ZoneAlarm, and TrendMicro. Trust me – OneCare is the very model of decorum and politeness and looks angelic by comparison.)
The big news for Windows Live OneCare is the addition of Windows Live OneCare for Server, which will be included with SBS 2008 as an optional choice for security. The new server product will provide simple virus and malware protection, which in itself is a welcome addition for small businesses.
But apparently it will also allow up to 25 workstations to be managed centrally and covered by a single OneCare license, which is good news indeed! I’ve needed better monitoring and management for my clients’ computers. It also allows the data on the workstations to be backed up centrally, which might be sufficient to protect the Outlook .PST archives that are piling up everywhere. Here’s some info about the new server product.
- OneCare for server only: $189.95/year
- OneCare for server plus a “site license” (apparently up to 25 workstations): $399.95/year.
There is a big caveat, though – OneCare for Server will only work with SBS 2008. I can’t install it on my clients’ existing SBS 2003 networks.
In my mind, this is a big selling point for an upgrade to SBS 2008 as we replace aging SBS 2003 servers!
