Microsoft Windows Server 2003 R2

What's new?

Q1. What's new with Windows Server 2003 R2?

A1. Windows Server 2003 R2 is Microsoft's update release of the Windows Server 2003 operating system. It is not a major revision of Windows Server 2003. Windows Server 2003 R2 provides a scalable, secure Web application platform and enables new scenarios including simplified branch server management, improved identity and access management, and more efficient storage management , building upon the increased security, reliability and performance provided by Windows Server 2003. Windows Server 2003 with SP1 is a requirement for Windows Server 2003 R2, which is on CD 1. CD 2 includes the Windows Server 2003 R2 features.For more information on Windows Server 2003 R2, visit the Microsoft Windows Server 2003 R2 Product Overview.

Q2. What are the major improvements included in Windows Server 2003 R2?

A2. Windows Server 2003 R2 includes:
Simplifies management of branches without effecting branch operations through enhanced management tools, centralized data stores and robust file replication.
Provides a simpler and less costly way to connect with partners by enabling management of a single identity from your applications.
Simplifies storage management through centralized view of storage, and simplified storage planning, provisioning and maintenance.
The Unix interoperability bridges the platforms in the infrastructure leveraging the IT department's UNIX skills on a Windows platform.

Q3. When should I upgrade from Windows Server 2003 to Windows Server 2003 R2?

A3. Windows Server 2003 R2 integrates the work done in Windows Server 2003 SP1 with selected new features and components, and adds a small number of previously released feature packs. Because Windows Server 2003 R2 is based on Windows Server 2003 SP1, you would need to upgrade only those Windows Server 2003 servers on which you want to run the new features. Because Windows Server 2003 R2 will be serviced with the same service packs and updates as Windows Server 2003, combining Windows Server 2003 operating systems and Windows Server 2003 R2 operating systems in a single environment is very easy.

Q4. What are the differences between Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 (SP1) and Windows Server 2003 R2?

A4. Windows Server 2003 SP1 is a service pack that provides product updates to the Windows Server 2003 operating system. Windows Server 2003 SP1 contains additional features to increase security and improve functionality. SP1 is a free product update and can be easily downloaded or ordered on CD.

More information about Windows Server 2003 SP1.

Windows Server 2003 R2 is an update release of the Windows Server 2003 operating system that is built on top of Windows Server 2003 SP1 and includes new product features, specifically: branch office management, identity and access management, and storage management. Windows Server R2 requires a new server license and is available for purchase through the same channels as Windows Server.

Q5. Will I have to purchase new Client Access Licenses (CALs) for Windows Server 2003 R2?

A5. No, the existing Windows Server 2003 Client Access Licenses will work on Windows Server 2003 R2. There are no Windows Server 2003 R2-specific Client Access Licenses.