Windows Server 2008 Delayed

Please don't be too shocked by this one: Microsoft has again delayed one of its highly anticipated products. This time the unfortunate one is Windows Server 2008, unsurprisingly pushed back until, you guessed it, 2008.

At one time, Microsoft had planned to release Windows Server 2008 just in time for reindeer and Santa Claus, although recent troubles have left representatives scratching their heads. Now, it seems work on the software could take as long as an additional ninety days, moving the final release well into spring of next year. (Source: computerworld.com)

What is Windows Server 2008?

The delayed software serves three purposes: to manage, provide security, and increase performance. It's also the entry point for 64-bit-only server operating systems from the Redmond-based-company.

Although officially Windows Server 2008 could be released anywhere between January 1 and March 31, the final date will likely be closer to the latter. That's because Microsoft's product clearly isn't ready; in fact, reps are now telling the media that Windows Server 2008 demands more and more testing. Some speculators worry it won't even be ready for Microsoft's much-hyped launch event in LA during the last week of February. Given the fact that SQL Server 2008 and Visual Studio 2008 aren't set to ship until well after that time, there may be very little for Microsoft to launch, interestingly enough.

Given the criticism of Vista and the anxious wait for the operating system's Service Pack 1 (SP1), it's hard to blame Microsoft for their slow-moving tactic. Semi-independent analysts like Michael Cherry, who have worked with Microsoft in the past, believe, "I think they are just concerned about doing the right thing." (Source: pcworld.com)

Unfortunately, the delay could have a snowball effect (though there may be no snow left by the time Server 2008 is released). Even Microsoft is admitting that this wait could lead to a similar situation with WSV, or Windows Server Virtualization, an expansion to Server 2008. Regardless, the company believes it can release both within a reasonable time frame. Group project manager Helene Love Snell recently stated, "The end dates may have changed, but the parameters have not changed".

Neither have our expectations of Microsoft software schedules.