Windows Server 2008 goes beta

Boy, Microsoft really has been hogging the headlines this week, haven't they? First, we received word that the company had released a beta of Windows Vista SP1. Next, it was Windows XP SP3 getting the beta treatment. Now, Windows Server 2008, one of the most delayed Microsoft products in recent memory, is finally making its way out the door in release candidate form. Windows Server 2008 Release Candidate 0 is available for download from Microsoft's website, so head on over and download an evaluation copy, if you're so inclined. Additionally, Microsoft has revealed some information about the upgrade path for Windows Server 2008, the first update to the company's aging server product since 2003. Current owners of Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard Edition, Standard Edition SP1, Standard Edition SP2 or Windows Server 2008 Standard Beta 3, will be able to upgrade to a full installation of Windows Server 2008 Standard or Enterprise. Owners of Windows Server 2003 R2 Enterprise Edition, Enterprise Edition SP1, Enterprise Edition SP2 or Windows Server 2008 Enterprise Beta 3 will be able to upgrade to Windows Server 2008 Enterprise. Better start saving up those pennies now, sys admins: as we've reported earlier, Windows Server 2008 is set to release during the first quarter of 2008.

For more on Windows Server 2008:
- see this Ars Technica article