Windows Vista, Windows XP and Windows Server 2008 are not the sole Windows client and server side operating systems getting Service Packs in the first half of 2008. Microsoft is in the final stages of cooking of the first minor release of Windows Home Server. Formerly codenamed UR1, Windows Home Server Power Pack 1 is nothing more than the equivalent of a Service Pack, with the first public beta just around the corner.

"Interested in participating in the beta program for Windows Home Server Power Pack 1? We need your help! You are encouraged to sign up and install the latest build of Windows Home Server from Microsoft Connect in preparation for the Power Pack 1 download. Additional information on how to prepare a home server for testing the beta of Power Pack 1 is outlined on the Microsoft Connect site," revealed a member of the Windows Home Server team.

Microsoft failed to pin point the actual availability date for the public beta of Windows Home Server Power Pack 1, delivering just the promise that the release is coming soon. The Power Pack has been in private testing since April, 2008, and the May release marks an important stage in the products development and the proximity to RTM.

On top of the additional features and functionality Microsoft will introduce to Windows Home Server through Power Pack 1, the company will also fix one of the most controversial problems with the operating system - a data corruption bug which affected the backup capabilities of the product under specific conditions.

"The Power Pack 1 download is planned to be available in early June. We intend to allow for adequate time for feedback and thorough testing during the beta process. The timeline for a final release will depend on feedback and testing, in order to deliver a fix of the highest quality," the Windows Home Server team member added.