| What's new? |
| Q1. |
What's new with Windows Server 2003 R2? |
| A1. |
Windows Server 2003 R2 is Microsoft's update release of the Windows Server 2003 operating system. It is not a major revision of Windows Server 2003. Windows Server 2003 R2 provides a scalable, secure Web application platform and enables new scenarios including simplified branch server management, improved identity and access management, and more efficient storage management , building upon the increased security, reliability and performance provided by Windows Server 2003. Windows Server 2003 with SP1 is a requirement for Windows Server 2003 R2, which is on CD 1. CD 2 includes the Windows Server 2003 R2 features.For more information on Windows Server 2003 R2, visit the Microsoft Windows Server 2003 R2 Product Overview. |
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| Q2. |
What are the major improvements included in Windows Server 2003 R2? |
| A2. |
Windows Server 2003 R2 includes:
- Simplifies management of branches without effecting branch operations through enhanced management tools, centralized data stores and robust file replication.
- Provides a simpler and less costly way to connect with partners by enabling management of a single identity from your applications.
- Simplifies storage management through centralized view of storage, and simplified storage planning, provisioning and maintenance.
- The Unix interoperability bridges the platforms in the infrastructure leveraging the IT department's UNIX skills on a Windows platform.
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| Q3. |
When should I upgrade from Windows Server 2003 to Windows Server 2003 R2? |
| A3. |
Windows Server 2003 R2 integrates the work done in Windows Server 2003 SP1 with selected new features and components, and adds a small number of previously released feature packs. Because Windows Server 2003 R2 is based on Windows Server 2003 SP1, you would need to upgrade only those Windows Server 2003 servers on which you want to run the new features. Because Windows Server 2003 R2 will be serviced with the same service packs and updates as Windows Server 2003, combining Windows Server 2003 operating systems and Windows Server 2003 R2 operating systems in a single environment is very easy. |
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| Q4. |
What are the differences between Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 (SP1) and Windows Server 2003 R2? |
| A4. |
Windows Server 2003 SP1 is a service pack that provides product updates to the Windows Server 2003 operating system. Windows Server 2003 SP1 contains additional features to increase security and improve functionality. SP1 is a free product update and can be easily downloaded or ordered on CD.
More information about Windows Server 2003 SP1.
Windows Server 2003 R2 is an update release of the Windows Server 2003 operating system that is built on top of Windows Server 2003 SP1 and includes new product features, specifically: branch office management, identity and access management, and storage management. Windows Server R2 requires a new server license and is available for purchase through the same channels as Windows Server. |
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| Q5. |
Will I have to purchase new Client Access Licenses (CALs) for Windows Server 2003 R2? |
| A5. |
No, the existing Windows Server 2003 Client Access Licenses will work on Windows Server 2003 R2. There are no Windows Server 2003 R2-specific Client Access Licenses. |
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| Microsoft Windows Server 2003 |
| Q1. |
What are the differences between Standard, Enterprise and Web Editions of Windows Server 2003? |
| A1. |
The Windows Server 2003 operating system family as offered by HP includes three products which share core functionality but offer varying levels of features and scalability to address different classes of business solutions.
- Windows Server 2003, Enterprise Edition, is the server operating system of choice for medium to large businesses. It delivers the functionality needed for enterprise infrastructure, line-of-business applications, and e-commerce transactions. It comes in 32-bit, x64, and 64-bit for Itanium versions. HP supports Enterprise Edition on HP ProLiant and HP Integrity servers with up to 8 processors.
- Windows Server 2003, Standard Edition, is the network operating system recommended for small-business environments. It is an ideal solution for the basic file, print, and collaboration needs of departments and small organizations. HP supports 32-bit Standard Edition and Standard x64 Edition on HP ProLiant Servers with up to 4 processors.
- Windows Server 2003, Web Edition, is a single-purpose edition for building and hosting Web applications, Web pages, and XML Web services. It will only be distributed through selected partner channels and will not be available for retail. HP supports 32-bit Web Edition on HP ProLiant servers with up to 2 processors.
- For information of the feature differences among the editions, see Microsoft's Compare the Editions website.
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| Q2. |
Are there any differences between 32-bit, x64, and 64-bit versions of Windows Server 2003? |
| A2. |
All editions of Windows Server 2003 are based on the same source code and include the same features except that the 64-bit editions don't currently include native 64-bit .NET Framework or Common Language Runtime (CLR). In addition, Windows Media Player is not included in 64bit versions. The 64-bit .NET Framework and CLR will be available in 2H05.
Both existing 32-bit Windows applications and new native 64-bit applications are supported concurrently by Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions. Most current 32-bit Windows applications are compatible with the x64 Editions. The new native x64 Windows applications are of course compatible from the beginning. For the most current listing of both 32-bit and 64-bit compatible applications check Applications for x64 Editions. |
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| Q3. |
What's the difference between Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions and Windows Server 2003 for 64-bit Itanium-based Systems? |
| A3. |
The Windows Server 2003 family supports two different 64-bit architectures. The first is based on Explicitly Parallel Instruction Computing (EPIC) architecture, and supports servers like HP Integrity using the Intel Itanium 2 processor family. The second is based on 64-bit extensions to the x86 instruction set, and supports servers like the HP ProLiant family with AMD Opteron and Intel Xeon with Intel Extended Memory 64 Technology (EM64T) based processors.
Windows Server 2003 for 64-Bit Itanium-based Systems delivers the highest levels of scalability for native 64-bit workloads such as databases and business applications. HP supports these editions on the HP Integrity family of servers.
Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions provide high-performance support for both 32-bit and 64-bit applications on the same server providing great versatility and broad application support for smoothing your migration to 64-bit technology. HP supports the x64 Editions on the HP ProLiant family of servers.
For more information on Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition, please visit the Microsoft web site. |
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| Q4. |
I'm using Windows 2000. Why would I want to upgrade to Windows Server 2003? |
| A4. |
The major new enhancement in Windows Server 2003 over Windows 2000 and the major reasons to upgrade from Windows 2000 include:
- Scalability is dramatically improved with support for up to 64 processor, 512 GB memory, Itanium 2-based systems like the HP Superdome.
- Active Directory enhancements include tools that bring drag-an-drop directory tree editing, multi-object selection, the ability to rename domains, and the ability to save and reuse queries saving you time and errors. Cross forest trusts simplify management in multiple forest environments that frequently arise as companies merge and re-organize.
- The Group Policy Management Console makes it much easier to view and manage group policy saving time, training cost, and errors.
- New Resultant Set of Policy tool is an infrastructure provided as a set of Microsoft Management Console snap-ins that allows administrators to see the effect of Group Policy changes making it easier to plan, monitor, and troubleshoot Group Policy.
- The Volume Shadow Copy/Restore service lets administrators configure point in time backup of critical data volumes without interrupting service. Shadow Copy also supports open file backup permitting applications to continue to run while backup is in progress.
- The re-architected Internet Information Services 6.0 (IIS) provides improved performance, scalability, and security over Windows 2000.
- Integrated .NET Framework provide an applications platform for quickly building and deploying XML Web services solutions.
- Command-Line Management extensions enable administration from a command line console or scripts providing additional flexibility and productivity.
- Up to 8-node clustering provides enhanced reliability - if one of the nodes in the cluster becomes unavailable, another node begins providing service through a process called failover.
- Secure Wireless LAN (802.1X) enhancements improve privacy and security over Windows 2000.
- Headless Server Support and Command Line Management extensions enable administration from a command line console or scripts improving flexibility and productivity.
For more details on why to upgrade from Windows Server 2003, see Upgrading to Windows Server 2003 from Windows 2000 Server. |
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| Q5. |
I'm using Window NT4. Why should I upgrade to Windows Server 2003? |
| A5. |
In addition to providing the fastest, most reliable and most secure Windows Server ever, Windows Server 2003 integrates a powerful application environment to develop innovative XML Web services and business solutions that dramatically improve process efficiency. Here are the major new features and improvements for organizations considering upgrading from Microsoft Windows NT® Server 4.0:
- Active Directory
- Group Policy: Group Policy Management Console
- Server Performance
- Volume Shadow Copy Restore
- Internet Information Services 6.0 and the Microsoft .NET Framework
- Terminal Services
- Clustering (Eight-Node Support)
- Integrated PKI Support Using Kerberos Version 5
- Command-Line Management
- Intelligent File Services
- Encrypting File System, Distributed File System, File Replication Service
For more information on upgrading from Windows NT Server 4.0, check Upgrading to Windows Server 2003 from Windows NT Server 4.0. |
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| Common Microsoft Windows Server questions |
| Q1. |
What is Microsoft Software Assurance? |
| A1. |
Software assurance replaces the Upgrade Advantage. Upgrade Advantage is a type of license that no longer exists (as of July 31, 2002). It gave the licensee the right to install any new release of the product for which UA was acquired for the duration of either two years or expiry of the term of the customer's volume license agreement-whichever was shorter.
Software Assurance (SA) is a way for volume licensing customers to keep current with the latest, most innovative Microsoft products. Under the SA program, customers acquire the right to install any new release of a product covered in the agreement during the term of the coverage. Software Assurance now also includes more benefits for the same price, including problem resolution support during business hours for covered server products, access to Managed Newsgroups and Online Concierge Chat, and Microsoft's self-paced training courses.
In order to guarantee eligibility for the most current product releases and "upgrade-like" pricing you will need to purchase Software Assurance. |
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| Q2. |
What is the difference between a Windows Server 2003 user CAL and a Windows Server 2003 device CAL? |
| A2. |
The difference between a user and device CAL is that a user CAL allows one user to connect to the network using a single device (PC, handheld, laptop, etc.) or multiple devices. A device CAL allows multiple users to access the network through a single shared device. |
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| Q3. |
Where is my Product Identification Key (PID) and what do I do with it? |
| A3. |
The Product Identification Key or PID is located on your Certificate of Authenticity (COA) if you bought an OEM version of the OS. A generic OEM PID was used to pre-install the OS. The PID on the COA is needed if you need to re-install the OS in the future.
If you purchased your OS through the Microsoft Open License Program (MOLP), the license key code is on the jewel case of the Worldwide Fulfillment CD that is drop shipped direct from Microsoft. |
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| Q4. |
Where is the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) located on my server? |
| A4. |
For most systems, the COA is locate on top of the server in the left rear corner. This may not be the case for all systems. Due to space constraints, the COA is sometimes located elsewhere on the server. These locations may include the side panels, rear, and on the inside of a removable panel.
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| Microsoft Windows Server 2003 from HP |
| Q1. |
How can I buy Windows Server 2003 from HP? |
| A1. |
Windows Server 2003 family of products is available for purchase as factory installed or on CD with an HP ProLiant server. Visit the how to buy section of Windows Server 2003 for more information. |
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| Q2. |
How many client access licenses come with each Microsoft server operating system from HP? |
| A2. |
All Microsoft server operating systems offered by HP come with a base number of client access licenses or CALs. Client access licenses authorize named users or device to access the server via the Microsoft server operating system. The following CALs come with the following Microsoft Windows Server 2003 family of products
- Standard and x64 Standard Editions - 5 CALs
- Web Edition +10 CALs maximum for content publishing ONLY
- Enterprise and Enterprise x64 Editions + 25 CALs
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| Q3. |
Which HP ProLiant models are supported and not supported for Windows Server 2003? |
| A3. |
For the current list of supported servers, see ProLiant OS support matrix for Windows Server.
32-bit ProLiant servers with PII, PII Xeon, Pentium Pro and earlier processors are not supported. Also, HP-branded servers introduced before 2002 and HP NetServers are not supported. |
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| Q4. |
Where can I find additional ProLiant value add software support for Windows Server 2003? |
| A4. |
Drivers and support software for Windows Server 2003 family of products are provided in the ProLiant Support Pack (PSP) for Windows Server 2003.
HP also offers additional value-add software that offer complete management solutions for your ProLiant server environment. Visit the Insight software website for more information. |
| Q5. |
On a factory installed ProLiant server with Windows Server 2003 where can I find drivers for additional HP hardware that will be installed in the system? |
| A5. |
There are several ways to obtain additional ProLiant value-add software drivers:
- Download the latest ProLiant Support Pack (PSP) (See question A4)
- Download the latest SmartStart with the PSP. (Only available for ProLiant 300 and 500 series servers. For ProLiant 100 series servers, follow the PSP download.)
- With your preinstalled server, a folder called HPDRVRS on Windows Server 2003 has been created on the root of the boot partition (C: drive). Most of the drivers for HP devices have been placed in this directory. The drivers' path has been set in the registry to automatically check this location for drivers when new a device is installed.
- Run the PSP installed with this server by clicking Start | Programs (expand All Programs in Windows Server 2003)| Pre-Install Features | ProLiant Support Pack. If the device is installed in the system properly, this utility should detect it and install the appropriate driver.
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| Service and support |
| Q1. |
Who do I call for service and support? |
| A1. |
Customers that purchase Microsoft server operating systems from HP would call HP for both OS and server support. Technical support is available from the HP website or by telephone for ninety (90) days from the date of purchase. Telephone support (Software Support Services) includes assistance with:
- Answering your installation questions (how-to, first steps, and prerequisites)
- Setting up and configuring the software (how-to and first steps; excludes system optimization, customization, and network configuration)
- Interpreting system error messages
- Isolating system problems to software usage problems
- Obtaining support pack information or updates
For additional information on HP service and support,
» contact hp - United States
» contact hp - Worldwide |
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| Q2. |
What is the warranty for a Microsoft server operating system from HP? |
| A2. |
With a Windows Server operating system and ProLiant purchase from HP, HP provides 90-day warranty support for installation, setup and configuration from time of purchase. HP also provides 90-day replacement warranty for lost media or media that proves to be defective in material. HP provides fee-based services support after this 90-day warranty period.
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| Q3. |
What support services are available with Windows Server 2003? |
| A3. |
A complete portfolio of services (Assessment, Installation and Startup, Migration, and others) is available for both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows Server 2003. Information on available services is found at HP Services for Windows. |
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| Q4. |
What kind of training is available with Windows Server 2003? |
| A4. |
Educational classes are available online or through instructor-led training seminars. Visit the Microsoft Curriculum offered by HP for more information.
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