Posted by: AshleyStarr in Untagged on
Jul 04, 2008
Microsoft have released the first realease candidate of SQL Server 2008 which promises to improve life for database administrators. The latest version offers a variety of new features and functionality that will make administration a whole lot better.
To download Release Candidate 0 go to:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=35F53843-03F7-4ED5-8142-24A4C024CA05&displaylang=en
For a more on the new features visit: http://www.phillipstaylorbrown.com/index.php?option=com_kb&task=article&article=15
Posted by: TonyBrown in Microsoft, Isa, firewall on
Jul 03, 2008
It's taken 2 years, but isa server 2006 sp1 is finally here.
Along with the usual bug fixes - there are quite a few really useful tools. Here are a list of what we think are going to be the most useful....
Configuration change tracking
Change control is paramount for mission critical services, and a corporate firewall is top of the list. With this new feature, you can track which users have made changes to any item in the array (essential for PCI compliance).
Web Publishing rule testing
We've seen numerous problems occour when conflicting publishing rules have taken down a firewall, a publishing rule test button will go a long way to mitigate this as it can even recommend steps to take to correct any problems. (Well done Microsoft - but we'd like to see it for all publishing rules)
Traffic Simulator
Pretty obvious what this is and it's really cool. You've got numerous inbound and outbound scenarios to choose from and you can see exactly how different traffic behaves as it makes its fantastic voyage through your ISA server.
There have been additional features added including improved RSA SecurID support, better alerting, improved diagnostic log filtering and improved web load balancing.
This is what we like to see from a service pack - not just bug fixes, but loads of new features......
Remember to do a full backup before you install though - just in case. :)
Posted by: SimonPhillips in SBS, Microsoft on
Jun 27, 2008
A New Server Solution for Small to medium sized companies is due to reach us soon.
Windows Essential Business Server (code name: Centro), is a new and fully integrated multiple server solution designed for the small to midsize company. It provides the essential technology needed for a much more secure and reliable business network.
running on top of Windows Server 2008, Windows Essential Business Server includes software for all areas of the typical business network system including, management tools, email and security features all in one integrated server solution that dramatically reduces IT complexity and improves efficiency across the network. Windows Essential Business Server is a one stop shop server solution designed to transform businesses by helping them to save time and money.
Windows Essential Business Server will be available in two editions: Standard and Premium.
Posted by: SimonPhillips in Untagged on
Jun 27, 2008
Microsoft are working on revolutionary new multi touch surface computer powered by Windows Vista and Windows 7 (the next Windows client OS).
Microsoft has been trying to look beyond what we know as the desktop for sometime with little success. With the new surface projects they are showing the potential for what can only be described as revolutionary interfaces.
At its heart is a PC running Windows Vista (possibly windows 7 - we don't know until domestic release). The best bit of course... NO KEYBOARD OR MOUSE, surface uses a touch-sensitive display that enables multiple users to navigate the system's interface simultaneously.
By detecting every touch and gesture on its surface this offers a very tactile way of interacting with digital devices, media formats and other information. Users must actually grab files and images with their fingers without the use of a conventional mouse or keyboard. The system also allows multiple users to interact with the display at the same time, paving the way for a potentially great new generation of applications and games.
Posted by: SimonPhillips in Untagged on
Jun 27, 2008
Microsoft have finally started a push into the huge commercial and domestic Sat Nav market:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/embedded/products/navready/default.mspx
The primary focus is essentially a flavour of Windows embedded targeted at Satellite navigation hardware. Its caled NavReady and will Initially be focused on Portable Navigation Devices (PNDs). Never one to miss a trick Microsoft will of course include Live Search and MSN Direct to provide navigation services and other services yet to be announced.
NavReady already supports Bluetooth, hands free and AV remote. This means Navready will easily be capable of controlling the in car entertainment system and the mobile phone.
Microsoft claim that this new product version should only cost device manufacturers a few dollars so expect to see this in a car near you soon!
