Joel Sider, Sr. Product Manager, Windows Server PR Microsoft Corp. has been kind enough to answer a few questions and clarify some aspects of Windows Home Server. Mr. Sider addressed the technology behind WHS, its security, the hardware that will bundle with WHS, the price and the availability of Windows Home Server.

Softpedia: What technology went into building Windows Home Server?

Joel Sider: Windows Home Server is built on Windows Server technology, but it also includes a great deal of new technology for simple backup/restore of multiple PCs in the home, easy addition of new storage, and a highly intuitive console to administer backups, shared folders, storage, users and network health.

Softpedia: Has Microsoft built in security solutions or are users to implement third party security products with Windows Home Server?

Joel Sider: Windows Home Server is designed to work in broadband connected households that already have a broadband router / firewall device. A Windows Home Server device plugs in on the inside of the house and is initially protected by a users' router / firewall device. Additionally, it is built on the proven technologies of Windows Server and uses the software firewall technologies built into Windows Server to provide an additional level of protection. It will be updated by Automatic Updates from MS. Also, remote access to Home Server is via HTTPS, only uses necessary ports, and is disabled by default.

Softpedia: Could you tell us what security developers will be providing security for Windows Home Server?

Joel Sider: We are working with Microsoft OneCare and leading anti-virus providers to help them develop solutions specific to Windows Home Server.

Softpedia: What other companies besides HP are planning to release hardware products that will bundle with Windows Home Server?

Joel Sider: HP is our launch partner for Windows Home Server and will be shipping the MediaSmart Server, powered by Windows Home Server, later this year. We anticipate other OEMs will follow. At CES, AMD, Inventec and Quanta demonstrated Home Server hardware reference designs, providing a preview of potential Home Server hardware form factors.

Softpedia: I know that you will probably not be able to provide us with an accurate figure, but could you approximate the cost of Windows Home Server?

Joel Sider: HP will set the price for MediaSmart Server and is not yet disclosing specifics. Storage capacity will be the primary factor for OEM pricing. Microsoft anticipates that Home Server product pricing will be in the range of a low-end PC.

Softpedia: I understand that Microsoft is planning to release Windows Home Server as a stand-alone product to OEMs. Will Microsoft also consider doing the same for home users?

Joel Sider: We are considering the possibilities of making Home Server available to system builders or 'do it yourself-ers.'

Softpedia would like to thank Joel Sider for his assistance.