Windows Small Business Server 2008 Public Preview Available

The first public preview of Windows Small Business Server (SBS) 2008 is available. The product, formerly known as Cougar, is scheduled for release for the second half of 2008. SBS supports companies with up to 75 users or devices.

SBS comes in Standard and Premium editions. Premium Edition subscribers get Windows Server 2008 and SQL Server 2008 as part of the bundle, and it is suitable for hosting Web applications. The inclusion of Microsoft SQL Server in the bundle is a key differentiator from previous offerings. This can make a combination of SBS a compelling platform for your small business customers.

SBS is part of the Windows Essential Server family aimed at small and medium organizations. Windows Essential Server family also includes Windows Essential Business Server 2008, code named Centro, which is designed for up to 300 users. You can compare suitability of versions at Microsoft Windows Essential Solutions.

You can download the preview from the TechNet site, Evaluate Windows Small Business Server 2008 Public Preview today.