Do you know what is the Windows Server platform that is secure by default? No, it is not Windows Server Longhorn. Due in the second half of 2007, Longhorn is yet to prove itself. And no, it is not Windows 2003, although you are close. It is actually Windows Home Server. This is also the reason why I said that you were close if you have guessed Windows Server 2003. At the code level, the similarities are extensive to the point where current Windows Server 2003 add-ins should install and run without any issues on Windows Home Server.

However, there is one question that I have come across not just once and it's about the security for Windows Home Server. Well, you will be happy to know that Windows Home Server was designed to be secure by default. The same affirmation generated an explosion when it was associated with Windows Vista. I have a feeling that Windows Home Server will not repeat the experience.

Speaking about the quality of add-ins designed for the product, Charlie Kindel Product Unit Manager, Windows Server Incubation - Quattro (Windows Home Server) had this to say: "Be seriously thoughtful about the implications your design and code can have on security. We have worked very hard to ensure that Windows Home Server is secure by default. You need to do the same thing."

And if there was any doubt, "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," said Joel Sider, Sr. Product Manager, Windows Server PR.

This however does not imply that users will not be able to deploy security solutions for Windows Home Server. In fact, the WHS team is working with OneCare to provide protection for the server.