Paul’s Picks - 27 Dec 2005

Windows Vista Second Community Technology Preview

PROS: New features and signs of things to come

CONS: Buggy; not feature-complete

RATING: 4 out of 5

RECOMMENDATIONS: Windows Vista Second Community Technology Preview (CTP) Release (build 5231), includes exciting new features such as simpler sharing capabilities and a more user-friendly Windows Mobility Center control panel. Vista is finally on track, which is good news for all Windows users, not to mention Microsoft. For enterprises looking to evaluate Vista, beta 2 and the CTP builds are worthwhile.

CONTACT: Microsoft * 800-426-9400 * http://www.microsoft.com

FULL REVIEW: http://www.itprotoday.com/article/reviews/microsoft-windows-vista-build-5231-community-technical-preview-2-review.aspx

Windows Server 2003 R2

PROS: Numerous small new features; security enhancements; free to Software Assurance customers

CONS: Many customers will have to pay for this version; most new features must be manually installed

RATING: 4 out of 5

RECOMMENDATIONS: Windows Server 2003 R2 will appeal most to businesses that need remote server management for branch offices, simpler SAN provisioning, and Active Directory Federation Services (ADFS—formerly code-named Trustbridge) for cross-company identity federation. For other customers, R2 provides several small updates, including a new Print Management Console and a new version of Windows SharePoint Services. Whether you should upgrade will depend on your needs.

CONTACT: Microsoft * 800-426-9400 * http://www.microsoft.com

FULL REVIEW: http://www.itprotoday.com/article/reviews/windows-server-2003-r2-review.aspx