Evolution of Microsoft’s Newest Server Operating System
In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of Windows Server 2012 and explore its major features and enhancements. Whether you’re a system administrator or an individual seeking to get up and running with this platform, we’ve got you covered. Let’s first take a brief look at the background of this cutting-edge server operating system.
The Pinnacle of Server Releases
Three years after the successful launch of Windows Server 2008 R2, Microsoft presented the tech world with Windows Server 2012. This release is hailed as the most significant upgrade since the shift from Windows Server NT 3.51 to NT 4.0, which revolutionized the graphical interface.
A standout aspect of Server 2012 is that, for the first time, Microsoft designed it with consumers’ needs and desires in mind, rather than solely catering to enterprise requirements. This fresh approach is what truly sets Server 2012 apart.
Embracing Consumer-Driven Technological Trends
Server 2012 is expertly crafted to embrace and support three major technological trends that have been fuelled by consumer demands: cloud computing, virtualization, and the ever-increasing consumerization of IT.
Microsoft diligently addressed these trends by introducing a range of upgrades and enhancements in Server 2012. Hyper-V 3.0, for example, comes packed with advanced virtualization technologies, enabling seamless connections between data centers and public clouds. System administrators can now build hybrid and multitenant private clouds, while virtualizing server hardware, storage, and networks. Not only does this cut down on power costs, but it also offers centralized administration with efficient scalability, catering to growing infrastructures.
Achieving the Delicate Balance
One of the biggest challenges for IT teams today is the consumerization of IT. With personal technology devices becoming increasingly sophisticated and ubiquitous, employees are keen to use their own devices in the workplace. IT needs to strike a balance between maintaining control over business networks and delivering an exceptional user experience.
Server 2012 seamlessly navigates this balancing act with its improvements to Remote Desktop Services (RDS) and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI). Enhancements in VDI ensure that the remote desktop experience mirrors LAN connectivity in terms of robustness. Additionally, the updated Server Manager offers centralized administration for Remote Desktop Services and remote clients, blending all the primary tools a system administrator requires into a single, user-friendly interface.
Security at the Forefront
Server 2012 includes vital security enhancements, enabling seamless integration of employees’ personal devices while ensuring data confidentiality, maintaining strong access controls, and adhering to compliance regulations such as Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Critical to this security boost is the implementation of Dynamic Access Control (DAC), which provides continuous and periodic control over security and compliance within an organization.
Uncovering Hidden Gems
Not only does Server 2012 cater to evolving workplace technology needs, but it also presents various new capabilities and fortified legacy features. Although some of these advancements may not be immediately apparent to users, they greatly contribute to a more robust and efficient server environment.
With Windows Server 2012, Microsoft proves once again why it is at the forefront of server operating systems. Stay tuned to explore these features and enhancements further.
