Windows

As managing vice president, Rob Helm covers Microsoft collaboration and content management. His 25-plus years of experience analyzing Microsoft’s technology... more

The next versions of the Windows client and server OSs will continue to be evolutionary rather than revolutionary, with timely delivery a key goal. Changes will be concentrated in areas likely to entice large organizations and consumers to overcome their reluctance to upgrade. Beta code of Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 were released to the public in Jan. 2009, and Microsoft has continued to work with hardware manufacturers and software developers who need time to adapt their products to any significant changes.

Microsoft has announced that Windows 7 will be released approximately three years after Windows Vista, in late 2009 or early 2010. Windows Server 2008 R2 is being developed simultaneously with Windows 7, and while development is synchronized, it does not mean they will ship at the same time. Windows Server 2008 R2 will ship in 2010.

Windows Client OS

The most recent Windows client version is Windows Vista SP1, which was released in Feb. 2008. Microsoft continues to assure customers that it is on track to release the next version, code-named Windows 7, in late 2009 or early 2010. (See the illustration “Windows Client Overview“.)

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