Small Business Server 2005 (Cougar)

Well it's official it appears...

 

SBS 2005 is a product and it's target date is Q3 of 2005.  I had a preview of that and Longhorn today from a Microsoft technical specialist.  Here's some information regarding "Cougar"

 

Will be released with Windows 2003 Server R2 included.  R2 is a Server refresh that will be released in late 04.

 

It will not include any "Longhorn" architecture.

 

Highlights include:

        New Management Home page that replaces a MMC-like console.  In the demo we saw a network map with computers, firewall, and server was included right on this page for quick reference.

        The new management page includes such quick info as your firewall is enabled and working and remote access is up and running properly. 

        It'll be a dynamic page that updates according to the items done on the server recently.  It will provide up to date relevant information on your network.

        Automatic Patch Management is included.  This will include the SUS 2.0 (or now called WUS, yeah I know!!) component that will feature push technology and other group patching mechanisms.

        A search feature for Sharepoint will be included in the standard edition.  This is only available in the Premium edition currently.

        Advanced Monitoring.  There will be "traffic lights" that are red, yellow, and green and allow even a novice to monitor network components quickly and efficiently.  There will also be data that is context related with the monitoring where a user can go for more information or to answer questions that one would have.

 

 

So what's my take?   Sounds like Microsoft is taking SBS seriously with a "quick refresh" that will incorporate some very nice things.  SBS 2003 has had great success and is currently selling at a 208% increase over SBS 2000.  With improved features Microsoft no doubt sees this as a "cash cow".

 

I think it will also greatly enhance the desire to purchase software assurance (SA) for SBS 2003 installs knowing that a future release is coming in 2 years from now and you'll get it with SA.

 

As I hear more I'll let you know....