14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is offering a trial version of the System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2, but, in case customers do not want the pains associated with actually deploying the solution in their infrastructure, the company is also serving a VHD of the software. System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2 VHD is a pre-configured virtual hard disk image, which allows users to run the solution in a virtual machine under Virtual PC 2007 or Virtual Server 2005. The full download is over 5 GB, and will permit customers to test-drive the complete System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2.
“System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2 is the next-generation release of Systems Management Server (SMS) 2003. Leverage deep integration with the 2007 Microsoft Office system, the Windows Vista operating system, Windows Server 2008, and Exchange Server 2007 to promote your systems-management solutions. And generate new sales revenue by extending of one of the most secure, well-managed, and cost-effective platforms in the industry,” Microsoft revealed.
The evaluation package brings to the table not just System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2, but also SQL Server 2005 Enterprise Edition and Windows Server 2003 R2 SP2 Enterprise Edition. According to the Redmond company, the VHD image is time-bombed and set to expire within 30 days from the first execution. However, TechNet and MSDN subscribers have the option to prolong the life of the evaluation package beyond the 30-day expiration date. Microsoft informed that all the TechNet and MSDN members could activate the operating system shipping with the System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2, in order to use the solution until June 7, 2010.
“System Center Configuration Manager 2007 is the solution to comprehensively assess, deploy, and update your servers, clients, and devices—across physical, virtual, distributed, and mobile environments. Optimized for Windows and extensible beyond, it is the best choice for gaining enhanced insight into, and control over, your IT systems,” the software giant stated. “Built on key Microsoft technologies, such as Microsoft Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), Windows Server Active Directory, and the Windows architecture, System Center Configuration Manager 2007 enhances your insight into, and control over, your IT infrastructure. With Configuration Manager 2007, organizations can ensure that IT systems comply with desired configuration states to improve systems’ availability, security, and performance network-wide.”
Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2 VHD is available for download here.