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Microsoft details small biz server release dates and prices
Three in a bed, little one said 'rollover'
Microsoft confirmed yesterday that its Aurora software will, as expected, be named Windows Small Business Server (SBS) 2011.
The company will release three products via its server licensing house.
Windows SBS 2011 Essentials, which carried the Aurora codename, is aimed at small businesses with up to 25 users and has been pencilled for a first half of next year release, said Microsoft.
It will connect to online services including Redmond’s recently announced Office 365 offering.
Microsoft will make the product available thorough its server licensing channels at an estimated US retail price of $545. It didn’t reveal UK pricing yesterday.
The standard edition of the software, previously known as Windows SBS 7, is for small firms and orgs with up to 75 users.
“Licensing for Windows SBS 2011 Standard is consistent with previous versions of Windows SBS 2008 Standard, which required both a Server License, plus CALs for each user,” said Microsoft.
It will carry a US price tag of around $1,096, with CALs costing $72. The company plans to release that version of the software through its licensing channels in December this year. It will hit hardware vendors and system builders in February 2011.
Microsoft is additionally punting Windows SBS 2011 Premium Add-on, that comes with an extra server dishing up support for SQL Server-based line-of-biz apps and access to Windows Server 2008 R2 tech.
It will set IT departments back $1,604 in the US, with CALs costing around $92 and will be spun out next month.
Microsoft has the full rundown of small biz server prices here. ®
Biting the hand that feeds IT
