Review: Windows Server 2008 R2 RTM

The benefits, however, may be masked by the initial complexity and technological requirements needed to fully deploy DirectAccess. From IPv6 to the transition technologies to the very requirement that Windows Server 2008 R2 be running within the enterprise -- forcing you to be an early adopter -- I don't think anyone is arguing this is easy. But it's worthwhile, and its presence in the box is an exciting omen of "what could be" when it comes to perimeter-less networking.

In terms of Active Directory (AD), there is a new AD DS management console that features tight PowerShell integration, as well as an AD Recycle Bin that allows recovery of previously deleted objects. You can now join machines to a Windows domain offline, which is useful for branch offices and other connectivity-challenged environments.

The Windows File Classification Infrastructure, which was new to the first release candidate of Windows Server 2008 R2, is a robust property identification system that allows you to set up rules that assign values to files based on their location or content and then take various actions based on those resulting values. In a nutshell, file classification allows the business to manage data based on its value and sensitivity. You can set up rules that apply and enforce classifications to data stored on the network -- whether it's by file type, name, location or other criteria -- and you can then instruct Windows to automatically apply policy according to those classifications. Think of Group Policy for files.

With all these new features, R2 is certainly the best Windows Server operating system to date.

For more information:

• Hands-on with Windows Server 2008 R2: The Windows File Classification Infrastructure
• Hands on with Windows Server 2008 r2: Admin tools
• Hands on with Windows Server 2008 R2: DirectAccess
• Windows Server 2008 R2 to be released in October
• Preview: Windows Server 2008 R2

Jonathan Hassell is an author, consultant and speaker on a variety of IT topics. His published works include a variety of books on Windows client and server, including Learning Windows Server 2003. His work appears regularly in such periodicals as Windows IT Pro magazine, PC Pro and TechNet Magazine. He also speaks worldwide on topics ranging from networking and security to Windows administration. You can reach Jon at jhassell@sunvalleygp.com.

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