14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft will deliver Windows Home Server, showcased at the 2007 International Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas, either bundled with hardware form factors or as a stand-alone product to OEMs. But additionally, Joel Sider, Sr. Product Manager, Windows Server PR Microsoft Corp., revealed exclusively to Softpedia that users will also be able to get their hands on Windows Home Server. "We are considering the possibilities of making Home Server available to system builders or 'do it yourself-ers'", explained Sider.
Microsoft is currently collaborating with HP on the launch of Windows Home Server that will be integrated into the MediaSmart Server. Additionally, Joel Sider also pointed out that AMD, Inventec and Quanta will also deliver hardware platforms for WHM. But if 'do it yourself-ers' want something different they will be able to build their own hardware for Windows Home server.
"Microsoft anticipates that Home Server product pricing will be in the range of a low-end PC," is the only pricing detail that Sider disclosed to Softpedia. So if you are indeed a 'do it yourself-er' than you need to start making plans starting with this piece of information.
"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," added Sider, explaining the security built into Windows Home Server.