In a world with a lot of operative systems to look at and a lot of options to consider, it is hard to tell which one is going to suit your needs better and which one is going to slow you down instead of helping you reach everything you want to reach. As such, it is important to look at the options and to understand the differences that exist between the operative systems so that you can make an informed decision.
In this article, we are going to look at the differences between Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 R2. To put things simply, Windows server 2008 is the server release of Windows Vista, while Windows Server 2008 R2 is the server release of Windows 7. As such, the R2 version introduced a lot of new features since it is a newer version.
Compatibility
There is, however, a small upgrade difference between these two and, as such, there is compatibility between a lot of applications and that means that even though the differences are there, there is no need to trade applications and to start working in a different matter if you have one or the other.
Features
Essentially, the main difference that exists between these two is that there are new features in Windows Server 2008 R2 when you compare to its “older brother”. These new features give the user a little bit more control, which enhances the Windows experience all together.
One of the new features is AppLocker. This is a feature that allows users to control the ability as to who can access a determined amount of files, all of specific types. This is amazing to protect sensitive information and to enforce policies within the team. Even though the feature was new, it can be used by existing Windows Server 2003 and 2008 servers without requiring a full upgrade.
Then we have DirectAccess. This is a feature that is going to allow users in the corporate network wherever they are, and at any possible time. The only requirement is that they are a part of the corporate network and that they actually have a working internet connection. There is, however, the need to have a domain controller running so that users can access the network.
There are even new administrative features that are going to improve your experience in Windows Server 2008 R2 simply because they are going to give you a better control on everything that is happening. With these features you are going to be able to have a tighter grip on your own machines an your users. This is, of course, one of the most important things that came with the new Windows 2008 R2 edition, among other things.