X
Tech

Microsoft seeks more testers for Windows Home Server

Microsoft is soliciting testers interested in trying out the newly minted Windows Home Server Beta 2.
Written by Mary Jo Foley, Senior Contributing Editor

Microsoft is soliciting testers interested in trying out the newly minted Windows Home Server Beta 2.

To date, Windows Home Server product has been in test primarily among 1,000 Microsoft employees and a select group of partners and customers. Microsoft is interested in widening the tester pool, effective immediately.

"We can't guarantee you'll be invited to participate right away (or at all), but if you're interested get yourself registered," explained company officials on the Windows Home Server team blog. "Keep in mind that Beta 2 does not really represent the 'consumer experience.' Most consumers will ultimately buy Home Server as an integrated hardware/software solution that's very plug and play, e.g. the HP MediaSmart Server. Beta 2 is software only, of course, meaning evaluators will need to know how to install and configure a server operating system."

Hardware requirements: A dedicated machine for Home Server that features Pentium 4, 512 MB RAM and two or more internal hard drives with at least 300 GB primary system hard drive, according to the Softies, plus at least two client PCs and a broadband connection.

The Windows Home Server forums are open to anyone, whether or not they are testing the product.

Windows Home Server is expected to ship by Fall 2007.

Editorial standards