REDMOND, Wash. — April 1, 2009 — Microsoft Corp. has expanded its industry-leading Windows Server family of operating systems with the addition of Windows Server 2008 Foundation. Built for small businesses with 15 or fewer users, Windows Server 2008 Foundation puts the reliability, security and manageability of the Windows Server platform within the reach of all businesses at an affordable price. Windows Server 2008 Foundation is initially available in 40 countries and will provide small business customers with the ability to run business applications and databases, host Web sites, and provide basic server functionality such as file and print sharing and remote access.
Microsoft is committed to empowering small businesses around the world with the technology and resources they need to drive innovation and get the most out of their investments quickly and cost-effectively. This commitment and opportunity were reiterated by Microsoft’s CEO Steve Ballmer.
“Today we are launching a new server-based solution with the right technologies at the right price to give small businesses access to the power of server-based business software,” Ballmer said. “Small businesses around the world have big business dreams and needs. To support their success I am also pleased to announce that we will donate a portion of the revenues of Windows Server 2008 Foundation to TechSoup.org and Telecentre.org, two organizations that focus on bringing the power of technology to nonprofits around the world. We see this as an opportunity not only to deliver a technical foundation for business growth but also to create a financial foundation for community.”
Microsoft’s goal is to provide a Windows Server-based solution for every customer need, size and budget. Windows Server 2008 Foundation delivers server functionality that customers have come to expect from Microsoft in a familiar Windows environment. As the business grows, 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. Customers can invest in Windows Server 2008 Foundation with confidence that there will be a Windows Server-based solution that suits their evolving business needs.
“Microsoft is filling a crucial hole at the low end of its Windows Server portfolio by delivering a simple, low-cost solution geared for small businesses and first-time server users,” said Al Gillen, program vice president, IDC. “Windows Server 2008 Foundation really rounds out Microsoft’s server platform and provides a solution for a key market segment.”
Microsoft expects the new server platform to be especially popular in small businesses across all markets. The modest cost will make it possible for businesses to grow, innovate and stay competitive in a globally diverse marketplace which in turn can ignite growth for their local economies. The company will make the operating system available initially across 40 countries and in several languages, beginning with English, Traditional and Simplified Chinese, Japanese, Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish and Turkish, with more localized versions coming throughout the year. Microsoft will also demonstrate to customers a simple way to make a difference in each of these communities. From now until Sept. 30, 2009, a portion of every Windows Server 2008 Foundation sale will go to TechSoup.org and Telecentre.org, two global nonprofit organizations that strive to serve nonprofits and social entrepreneurs to use technology more effectively.
“Windows Server 2008 Foundation is a great addition to the products offered by Microsoft to meet the needs of smaller organizations, including nonprofits, and this grant will allows us to expand the information available to help nonprofits learn how to best make use of new technology products to achieve their respective missions as efficiently and effectively as possible,” said Rebecca Masisak, Co-CEO, TechSoup Global.
Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) server hardware makers have been instrumental in bringing Windows Server 2008 Foundation to market by validating the need for a Windows Server-based solution uniquely focused on the needs of this segment of small companies around the world. Microsoft quickly responded to develop the product and partnered with OEMs to provide a simplified and convenient buying experience. Windows Server 2008 Foundation will be sold preinstalled on servers from manufacturers, including Dell Inc., HP and IBM Corp. Each OEM will set its own prices, which may vary by country. The first such machines will be available for purchase in the coming months. More information and details on how to purchase Windows Server 2008 Foundation are available at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsfoundationserver. Windows Server 2008 Foundation takes advantage of the same application certification requirements as Windows Server 2008. Applications certified for Windows Server can be found athttp://www.windowsservercatalog.com.
Additional information on Windows Server can be found at the Windows Server Division blog at http://blogs.technet.com/windowsserver/default.aspx.