14 DAY TRIAL // In addition to providing info on the upcoming flavors of its Windows Server 2012 platform, Microsoft also unveiled that there would be no Windows Home Server Edition available for its customers.
The Redmond-based software giant has specifically mentioned this in the new Windows Server 2012 Essentials frequently asked questions (FAQ) document posted on its website, so as to clear things up.
According to the company, the new Windows Server 2012 Essentials SKU will arrive as a hybrid cloud/on-premises solution for those interested in the matter.
“No. Windows Home Server has seen its greatest success in small office/home office (SOHO) environments and among the technology enthusiast community,” the company notes in said document.
“For this reason, Microsoft is combining the features that were previously only found in Windows Home Server, such as support for DLNA-compliant devices and media streaming, into Windows Server 2012 Essentials.”
At the same time, Microsoft is stating that it is focused on turning Windows Server 2012 Essentials into the ideal first server operating system option for both small business and home use.
The SKU will be able to offer “an intuitive administration experience, elastic and resilient storage features with Storage Spaces, and robust data protection for the server and client computers,” the company notes.
Moreover, the Redmond-based software giant explains that it will continue to offer support for the already purchased flavors of Windows Home Server.
“Windows Home Server 2011 will remain available as an OEM embedded product until December 31, 2025, and will remain available in all other current channels until December 31, 2013,” the company explained.
Those who would like to learn additional info on the matter should head over to Microsoft’s website. However, things are pretty clear already, although some of the company’s customers expressed their discontent with the decision.
For those who were looking into grabbing a Home flavor of Windows Server 2012, the Essentials SKU should provide all the needed answers.