Microsoft is now accepting registrations for Windows Longhorn beta

Microsoft has started to accept registrations for beta testing their latest server operating system code named "Longhorn". You can register yourself by clicking here and then the clicking on the "Register to be notified when the Windows Server, code name "Longhorn," Beta is available and to get beta updates in your TechNet Flash »" link in the Coming soon section.

Microsoft is promising several new features and functionalities with this version of Windows. Some of them are:

1. Greater Control: Microsoft Windows Longhorn server contains two new areas of functionality with Network Access Protection (NAP) and Internet Information Server (IIS) 7.0.

2. Higher availability: Using the new Server Core deployment options, administrators can choose to deploy servers with only the required services like DNS, DHCP or File and print services making the design more modular.

3. Greater Flexibility: Windows Longhorn provides greater flexibility to business by introducing new configuration options like "Read-Only Domain Controller (RODC)", enhanced Terminal services and Windows Deployment Services (WDS).

4. Better Fundamentals: Microsoft is promising better and more secure fundamental operating environment

All the promises above look very exciting and encouraging for me to at least try out Windows Longhorn. In addition this new version will be tightly integrated with Windows Vista and make the environment more manageable and secure. Windows Longhorn also includes Microsoft Windows PowerShell which is a new command-line shell and task-based scripting technology that is ideally suited for the automation of new Windows Server “Longhorn” features.

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