Home Server Added to MSDN

To drive third-party development of add-ons for Windows Home Server, Microsoft’s consumer-oriented server for backup and media sharing, Microsoft has made the software available to Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN) and TechNet subscribers. The move coincides with an update to the product, which contains bug fixes as well as a handful of new features, such as the ability to stream audio and video content to Media Center Extenders (including the Xbox 360). Although Home Server occupies an awkward niche between ad hoc backup solutions and low-end business servers, Microsoft believes that niche will grow as consumers purchase additional PCs.

Product Continues Forward

Introduced in fall 2007, Home Server gives home users an easy way to back up their existing computers and store files in a centrally accessible place on their home networks. Although based on Windows Server 2003, Home Server is a much simpler product, lacking standard business features such as Active Directory and Group Policy. Its features include centralized storage (with the ability to add additional storage easily), automatic backup for client PCs, digital media streaming, and remote access to stored data over the Internet.