Following last month’s launch of the Windows Home Server 2011-powered Leo HS4 Home Server, Tranquil PC have today announced the forthcoming availability of the world’s first server running Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials (codenamed “Breckenridge” during development).
Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials is the third in the “Colorado” family of small business servers released by Microsoft this year, and is a close cousin of Windows Home Server 2011, and Windows Small Business Server 2011 Essentials. Designed for small businesses with up to 25 seats, Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials differs from the other two platforms in its ability to integrate into existing Active Directory environments to perform client and server backup. Windows Home Server 2011 does not support Active Directory, whilst Windows Small Business Server 2011 Essentials does support AD but must be designated as the root domain – only Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials offers domain join capability, so is ideal for businesses with an existing server infrastructure that want to bring the Colorado features into the organisation.
Tranquil PC’s Leo SS4 is the first such model to be announced. It’s powered by a choice Intel’s 2nd generation “Sandy Bridge” Core i3 or i5 processors and 2GB RAM (expandable up to 8GB). The base specification offers 2TB storage, leaving three storage bays free, but this too can be expanded up to 8TB at purchase. The server is supported by a 2 year RTB warranty, which can be extended to 4 years as an option.
The base specification is priced at £779 ex VAT, with a £75 “early-bird” discount available for those pre-ordering. Hardware is expected to ship from June 11th.
Microsoft are expected to announce other hardware partners for Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials in due course.
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