Comparing the Windows 2003 Server and Windows 2008 Server Operating System - Essay Example

Windows server also manages domain and its client’s creation, maintenance and security. Domain of windows refer to the notion of network center where all requests for accessing data and information from peer connections on network are received and processed. The entire data of the domain is stored within the server giving physical protection and control of the users, their activities, authority, rights, positions and privileges. Windows servers come in various editions such as Standard Edition, Enterprise Edition, Datacenter Edition and Web Edition.

Each type of editions has different purpose and price and the user should select the edition that fits his budget and meets his needs. (Microsoft) It uses .NET technologies which is very powerful state of the art truly object oriented technology. Figure 1 below shows summary of its features, news about updates, requirements, compatibility, interface, installation, variants (editions), and versions. (Theosfiles) The family of Windows Server 2008 includes Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard, Enterprise, Datacenter and Windows Web Server 2008 R2 each one has its own long list of cost and benefits which can be studied separately at Microsoft Website.

As a case study, features of Standard Edition are presented here in Figure 3 which includes news, summary, requirements, compatibility, editions and versions, etc. (Theosfiles) Any decision of migration from Windows Server 2003 to 2008 requires critical planning of users account and their rights and data. Complete analysis of compatibility of hardware and software is also required by way of investigating whether each and every inventory item of hardware and software is operational and compatible with Windows Server 2008.

Costs of new device drivers, software upgrades and hardware are collected for accurate working. Cost and benefit analysis of upgrading must