Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Enterprise X64 Edition R2

Windows Server 2003 R2 extends the Windows Server 2003 operating system, providing a more efficient way to manage and control access to local and remote resources while easily integrating into your existing Windows Server 2003 environment. Windows Server 2003 R2 provides a scalable, security-enhanced Web platform, seamless interoperability with UNIX-based systems and enables new scenarios including simplified branch server management, improved identity and access management, and more efficient storage management. Windows Server 2003 R2 Enterprise Edition also delivers dynamic new licensing that allows customers to get even more value out of server virtualization. This page provides an overview of benefits, new features, and improvements in Windows Server 2003 R2.

Windows Server 2003 R2 Enterprise, x64 Edition, is well-suited for business-critical applications such as large databases and line-of-business applications, as well as for Terminal Server deployments that use Terminal Server Session Directory.

More centralized management:

• Provides centralized management tools for file and print functions

Reduced remote administration:

• Minimizes local administration and local back up

Better WAN efficiencies:

• Enables faster data replication over wide area networks

Greater user efficiency:

• Fewer user passwords, for both internal and partner-hosted web applications, through extranet Single Sign-On and identity federation

Enhanced IT efficiency:

• Centralized administration of extranet application access, fewer password resets, and the ability to delegate user management to trusted partners

Better security:

• Automated "shut off" of extranet access based on disabling a user's Active Directory account

Better regulatory compliance:

• Log user access to partner applications in external security domains

Improved interoperability with heterogeneous systems:

• Cross-platform Web Single Sign-On and identity federation using Web Services interoperability specifications and tools to manage and dynamically update user accounts and passwords across Windows and UNIX systems using Network Information Service (NIS). Also performs automatic synchronization of passwords between Windows and UNIX operating systems.

Better storage utilization:

• Provides storage utilization information through detailed storage reports

Better quota management:

• Monitors and controls disk space usage with directory quotas

Better file screening:

• Limits types of files allowed on servers with file screening

Simpler SAN configuration:

• Easily configures and provisions storage area networks (SANs)

Better performing web platform:

• Windows SharePoint Services delivers a cost-effective collaboration solution that can be deployed, configured, and managed quickly
• ASP.NET enables fast development of rich, Dynamic Systems Initiative-ready Web Services and applications using the .NET Framework
• IIS 6.0 delivers a more secure, high-performance Web server
• x64 support enables better performance at lower cost

Better virtualization value:

• Windows Server 2003 R2 Enterprise Edition provides better value in server virtualization.