Today, Microsoft will launch its new server software update at the Heroes Happen Here event. But while Windows Server 2008 will contain the beta bits for Hyper-V, the final product will be made available as an add-on “later in 2008”.
eWeek claims the delay will almost certainly cause enterprises to hold off on Windows Server 2008, backed by statements from analysts.
“We do not expect to see enterprise deployments of Windows Server 2008 of any significance until the final version of Hyper-V is out,” James Staten, principal analyst at Forrester Research.
The long development cycle for this new server product, which was five years in the making, has also allowed Linux to encroach on Microsoft’s base, Staten said, adding that this is unlikely to significantly erode the opportunities for Windows Server 2008.
eWeek goes on to say its release however marks a milestone for Microsoft, as the software includes lots of key technologies and services, many of which have been available to clients in early candidate form for several months.