Windows Server 2019 Essentials Might Be Last Version for SMB’s

Because cloud computing is affecting how small businesses operate their IT services, with an increasing number of Microsoft's SMB customers turning to Microsoft 365 for their file-sharing and collaboration needs, it's a highly transitional time for on-premises server products. Microsoft shared an update on the company's progress in the development of what is likely the final on-premises version of their Windows Server operating system. 

As part of the balancing act between cloud-based provisioning for SMBs and on-premises IT infrastructure, Microsoft will be offering a new version of on-premises server for small businesses – Windows Server 2019 Essentials, to be released along with the other editions of Windows Server 2019 later this year. However, there is a strong possibility that this product could be the last edition of Windows Server Essentials.

Microsoft's blog post announcing the news recommended smaller businesses look closely at services such as Microsoft 365 Business for their future needs. Microsoft 365 offers a combined package of software and services which includes Windows 10, Office 365 and Enterprise mobility & Security that can provide an increased level of security and overall management without the overhead of on-premises hardware and its required maintenance. 

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SharePoint Admins now have a new Online Management Shell in the PowerShell Gallery that will provide them regularly updated PowerShell scripts to assist in the management of their organizations SharePoint sites. You can review all of the documentation for the PowerShell Gallery to get up to speed with these changes and the service.

Reminder: We have a Windows Server 2019 Build Tracker.