What Are the Windows Server Versions?

Are you an IT professional or someone who is looking to understand Windows Server versions? If so, you have come to the right place! In this article, we will be exploring the different versions of Microsoft’s Windows Server operating system, discussing their features and capabilities. We will also look at their respective release dates and how they compare to one another.

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of Windows Server versions and how they can help you in your IT endeavors. So let’s get started!

Microsoft Windows Server is a group of operating systems designed by Microsoft Corporation. It is a server operating system that provides a platform for users to run various applications, such as web and database server applications. The current version of Windows Server is Windows Server 2019. Previous versions of Windows Server include Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows Server 2012, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003, and Windows 2000 Server.

To compare the features of different Windows Server versions, you can use the comparison table below.

What are the Different Windows Server Versions?

Windows Server is a server operating system developed by Microsoft, which is used to provide server-based computing services to other computers on the network. Windows Server comes in various versions, each with its own features and functions. Some of the major versions of Windows Server are Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2012, and Windows Server 2016. Windows Server versions are designed to provide different levels of functionality based on the needs of the network.

For example, Windows NT was the first version of Windows Server and was designed to provide basic server functionality. Windows 2000 was the first version of Windows Server that was designed to provide more advanced functionality, such as support for multiple processors and more powerful networking capabilities. Windows Server 2003 was the first version of Windows Server to include support for virtualization, which allows multiple virtual servers to run on the same physical server. Windows Server 2008 was the first version of Windows Server to include support for Windows PowerShell, a command-line scripting language that allows administrators to automate common tasks.

Windows Server 2012 was the first version of Windows Server to include support for cloud computing, which allows applications and services to be hosted in the cloud. Windows Server 2016 is the latest version of Windows Server, and provides the most advanced features, including support for Windows Containers, which allow applications to run in isolated environments.

Features of Different Windows Server Versions

Each version of Windows Server includes support for different features and functions. Windows NT was the first version of Windows Server and was designed to provide basic server functionality, such as file and print sharing, DNS and DHCP services, and web hosting. Windows 2000 added support for multiple processors, more powerful networking capabilities, and support for Active Directory, which is a directory service used to manage user accounts and resources on a network.

Windows Server 2003 added support for virtualization, which allows multiple virtual servers to run on the same physical server, and support for the .NET Framework, which is an application development platform. Windows Server 2008 added support for Windows PowerShell, a command-line scripting language that allows administrators to automate common tasks. Windows Server 2012 added support for cloud computing, which allows applications and services to be hosted in the cloud, as well as support for Windows Containers, which allow applications to run in isolated environments.

Benefits of Using Windows Server Versions

Windows Server versions provide users with a number of benefits. Windows Server is designed to be secure and reliable, and provides users with a number of features that make it easier to manage and monitor network resources.

Windows Server also provides users with access to a wide range of applications and services, including Microsoft Office, Exchange Server, SharePoint, and SQL Server. Windows Server versions also provide users with access to advanced features, such as virtualization, cloud computing, and Windows Containers. These features allow users to take advantage of the latest technologies and make it easier to manage and deploy applications and services.

Pricing of Different Windows Server Versions

The pricing of Windows Server versions varies depending on the version and the features included. Windows Server versions can be purchased as standalone licenses, or as part of a larger package.

For example, Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard Edition can be purchased as a standalone license for $849, or as part of a larger package that includes Windows Server 2008 R2 Enterprise Edition, Windows Server 2008 R2 Datacenter Edition, and Windows Server 2008 R2 Web Edition for $3,999.

Support for Different Windows Server Versions

Microsoft provides support for Windows Server versions through its online support portal, as well as through its customer service team. Microsoft also provides support for Windows Server versions through its community forums, where users can search for answers to common questions, as well as through its TechNet library, which provides technical documents and resources for Windows Server administrators.

Downloading Different Windows Server Versions

Windows Server versions can be downloaded from Microsoft's website. The download page provides links to the various versions of Windows Server, as well as information about system requirements and installation instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Windows Server Versions?

Windows Server is a series of server operating systems developed by Microsoft that supports enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and communications. Each version of Windows Server includes new features and enhancements to improve performance, reliability, and security. The most recent version of Windows Server is Windows Server 2019.

What Features Does Windows Server 2019 Include?

Windows Server 2019 includes a variety of features designed to improve performance, reliability, and security. Some of these features include Azure integration, improved virtualization, and improved storage performance. Additionally, Windows Server 2019 includes enhanced security features such as Shielded Virtual Machines and Just-in-Time Privilege Management. Windows Server 2019 also includes improved clustering, Active Directory Federation Services, and Windows Subsystem for Linux.

What Is the Difference Between Windows Server 2019 and Other Versions?

Windows Server 2019 is the most recent version of Windows Server and includes the most advanced features and enhancements. Windows Server 2019 includes features such as Azure integration, improved virtualization, and enhanced security features such as Shielded Virtual Machines and Just-in-Time Privilege Management. Additionally, Windows Server 2019 includes improved clustering, Active Directory Federation Services, and Windows Subsystem for Linux.

What Operating Systems Does Windows Server 2019 Support?

Windows Server 2019 supports a range of operating systems, including Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows Server 2003, and Windows Server 2000. Additionally, Windows Server 2019 can be used with Linux, macOS, and other UNIX-based operating systems.

What Are the Advantages of Using Windows Server 2019?

Windows Server 2019 offers a variety of advantages over previous versions of Windows Server. These advantages include improved performance, reliability, and security, as well as improved virtualization, Azure integration, enhanced storage performance, improved clustering, Active Directory Federation Services, and Windows Subsystem for Linux. Additionally, Windows Server 2019 offers support for a variety of operating systems, making it a more versatile platform.

How Can I Get Started with Windows Server 2019?

Getting started with Windows Server 2019 is easy. You can purchase a copy of Windows Server 2019 from a Microsoft retailer or download a free trial version from Microsoft's website. Additionally, Microsoft offers a range of training and certification courses to help you get up to speed with Windows Server 2019. Once you have purchased or downloaded the software, you can begin setting up and configuring your server. In conclusion, Windows Server is an important and versatile tool for business and home users alike. With its various versions, it provides a wide range of features and capabilities to meet different needs. From the latest Windows Server 2019 release to the older Windows Server 2012 and 2008, these versions are designed to provide the necessary tools and resources for businesses and individuals to run their systems efficiently and securely. With the ever-evolving technology and the changing needs of users, it is important to stay up-to-date and choose the most suitable version of Windows Server for your requirements.