Microsoft's entry-level server platform for SBs

BANGALORE, INDIA: Microsoft India today announced that it has expanded its industry-leading Windows Server family of operating systems with the launch of Windows Server 2008 Foundation.

Built for businesses with 15 or fewer users - Windows Server 2008 Foundation delivers the reliability, security and manageability of the Windows Server platform - at a price affordable and within reach of small businesses (SBs). Now available in 40 countries including India, it will empower SBs with the ability to run business applications and databases, host websites and will also offers basic server functionality such as file and print sharing and remote access.

In India, Microsoft has already partnered with HP and Dell in the first roll out phase to provide Windows Server 2008 Foundation, Microsoft's new low-cost server platform, is pre-installed on servers for customers. In the coming months - the company will establish similar partnerships with multiple OEMs to further strengthen its distribution channel for Windows Server 2008 Foundation.

Commenting on the launch, Bob Muglia, president, Server and Tools Business, Microsoft Worldwide, said: “Microsoft’s goal is to provide a Windows Server-based solution for every customer need, size and budget. This platform will empower small businesses with access to the power of server-based business software at an affordable price – in the all familiar Windows environment. As businesses grow, customers can upgrade to other members of the Windows Server family - which provide additional functionality such as integrated e-mail, simplified management, virtualization and other advanced features.”

According to leading analyst firm AMI Partners - small and mid-size businesses (SMBs) employ 90 percent of the world’s workforce and account for more than 50 percent of GDP worldwide. “Over the last few years, technology has emerged as a key business enabler for the rapidly expanding SMB segment in India. Keeping the market potential in mind, Microsoft expects the new Windows Server 2008 Foundation platform to be especially popular in small businesses across the country. With a promising proposition that delivers extraordinary value without breaking the bank – we are confident that Windows Server 2008 Foundation will make it possible for the SMB segment to grow, innovate and stay competitive in the Indian and global marketplace,” added Pallavi Kathuria, director, Server Business Group, Microsoft India.

As a part of Microsoft’s strategy for this launch, OEM server hardware makers will be instrumental in bringing Windows Server 2008 Foundation to market. Microsoft has currently partnered with HP and Dell to offer the platform in the Indian market landscape.

"Microsoft's portfolio for growing businesses has been significantly augmented by Windows Server 2008 Foundation. HP ProLiant is the undisputed leader in the x86 server space, and has a wide range of products customized for the unique requirements of mid-size and growing businesses. The partnership between HP and Microsoft on the Windows Server 2008 Foundation brings a compelling new choice to our customers," said Rajesh Dhar, director, Industry Standard Servers, HP India Sales. In the second phase of distribution - Windows Server 2008 Foundation will be sold pre-installed on servers from other OEMs in the coming months.