Microsoft has today ditched Windows Home Server while simultaneously unveiling four new editions for 2012. The four editions, which are aimed towards different types of businesses and enterprise, consist of Standard, Datacenter, Essentials, and Foundation.
This method of simplifying editions mirrors the moves made with the Windows 8 client side, and makes things a little less bamboozling for users by dropping the total iterations from a dozen to the new four-some.
In addition, the Redmond-based company also confirmed there’ll be no separate Windows Home Server edition this time around, but rather a concoction of the features from both Windows Home Server into Windows Server 2012 Essentials. Accompanying the announcement was an FAQ, and paints Windows Server 2012 Essentials as "the ideal first server operating system for both small business and home use."
Microsoft seems to be doing everything right in the eyes of consumers as it prepares for thel aunch of Windows 8. Often the target of bemusement among PC users in times passed, the software maker has garnered a mostly positive amount of coverage during the past twelve months. The Metro user interface – despite being seen as a better fit on a tablet – has proven a hit among Windows 8 previewers, and those looking for a touch-based Windows 8 experience also have the Microsoft Surface to look forward to (although important questions such as when, and how much, remain unanswered).
Many Windows Home Server users were left cursing back in late 2012 when the company opted, for reasons unbeknown to consumers, to remove the Drive Extender feature of Windows Home Server 2011, a handy function which allowed one volume to consist of several small drives. Still, by simplifying things this time around, hopefully Steve Ballmer and his troops can build the strongest version of Windows Home Server to date.
Windows Server is one of the most popular options for home and small business users, and despite bearing the brunt of user angst in the past, I would expect the now-simplified Windows Home Server to stay true on the promise to the aforementioned clientele.
You can follow us on Twitter, add us to your circle on Google+ or like our Facebook page to keep yourself updated on all the latest from Microsoft, Google, Apple and the web.