14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has just announced the general availability of Windows Server 2016 and System Center 2016, the latest version of the company’s server platform that comes with a wide array of improvements as compared to previous releases.
First and foremost, Microsoft says that WS 2016 comes with extended security features, as it integrates evolved versions of the protection systems available in its predecessors, along with new functionality that helps block emerging threats and offer better control to administrators.
The firm explains that Windows Server 2016 is a cloud-ready platform, and it comes with integration of cloud solutions that were tested by Microsoft on its own Azure data centers.
“Windows Server 2016 also offers seamless portability across datacenter, private and public cloud environments via virtual machine and new container formats that can be reliably deployed wherever the business requires,” Microsoft states.
Microsoft has also designed this new server solution to offer reduced storage cost, and in a statement today, it explains that engineers focused specifically on expanding capabilities in software-defined storage with an emphasis on resilience and increased control.
Evaluation version also up for grabs
Windows Server 2016 can be downloaded by customers from MSDN and the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC), with Microsoft also offering an evaluation version should interested IT admins want to give it a try before purchasing it.
“This release is just one of many reflecting our deep commitment to hybrid cloud. In our long-held view, hybrid cloud is the reality for all enterprise customers, even those with the most ambitious cloud plans. Some applications should and will move quickly to public cloud, while others face technological and regulatory obstacles. Regardless of where these applications run today or will run in the future, Windows Server 2016 provides a rich and secure platform,” Microsoft explains.
Microsoft will be hosting a Windows Server 2016 webcast today to discuss the new release in detail, so interested customers should participate to get in touch with company executives and find more information on this updated server platform.