February 2006

2003 Server Release 2 is available for sale. Release 2 is Windows 2003 server with service pack 1 and some enhancements. R2 is a separate product, not a service pack. The main new features are support for newer storage technologies, more 64 bit applications, and greater integration with other system such as UNIX. They are including a virtual server license with the enterprise version.  www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/r2/whatsnewinr2.mspx

ISA Server Service pack 2 is also out. This also applies to companies with Small Business Server 2003 Premium edition. ISA server is a software firewall. www.microsoft.com/isaserver

Track the location of anyone with a cell phone

www.engadget.com/2006/01/20/world-tracker-turns-anyone-into-a-cellphone-spy/

VMware announced that they will be giving away their GSX Server virtual server software.

Online Backups – Several clients have inquired about whether they should be backing up over the internet. The key to making it work is to back up only changed files. You do one large (full) backup, and then back up the changes nightly. Start by analyzing the amount of changed data you generate daily, and calculate how long it would take to back up at the speed of your current internet connection. If you are using a Database, including SQL or Exchange database, you will need to back up the entire database and associated logs nightly. Keep in mind the time it takes to retrieve the data if you need it as well. Features to consider: Expect to pay between $2 and $10 per Gigabyte per month. Since it is location independent, it makes sense to pick a company out of the area. Security and a stable business are essential. Look at the features of the user interface – most have free trial periods. For more information:

www.pcworld.com/howto/article/0,aid,123796,00.asp

avc.blogs.com/a_vc/2005/12/online_backups_.html

www.inc.com/partners/intel/articles/20051001/backupplan.html

www.storagesearch.com/edrives.html 

Winamp music player has serious security flaw. Be sure to upgrade if you use Winamp.

www.desktoppipeline.com/news/177105785

Windows Vista is scheduled for release in time for Christmas 2006. This is the next version of Windows for the desktop, to replace Windows XP.  Plan your hardware purchases this year with upgrades in mind.  The next generation of windows server will come out in 2007.

www.microsoft.com/Windowsvista   www.winsupersite.com/vista

The next generation of Microsoft office is scheduled for release this summer.

www.microsoft.com/office/preview/default.mspx  www.winsupersite.com/showcase/office12_preview1.asp

Tim Torian

Torian, Group, Inc.

http://www.toriangroup.com