Microsoft announces next version of Windows Server and System Center – UPDATED

Yesterday, Microsoft announced the new name for its Client Operating System: Windows 10. What was also announced was the upcoming features to be introduced in the next version of Windows Server and System Center. Windows Server 10 will be released in a technical preview for the public today. Also a technical preview of System Center is expected, with the exception of of System Center Configuration Manager for which a technical preview is expected in H1 next year.

For Windows Server Microsoft plans to introduce:

  • Support for rolling upgrades from older Hyper-V versions to the new Hyper-V version
  • A network controller able to manage both virtual and physical networks
  • Synchronous storage replication
  • Storage Quality of Service (QoS)
  • OpenGL and OpenCL support for Remote Desktop
  • Time based access with fine-grained privileges
  • New application publishing capabilties

For System Center Configuration Manager Microsoft is planning:

  • Support for client deployment, upgrade and management of Windows 10
  • Windows Intune will be able to manage Windows 10 devices via Mobile Device Management
  • Support for the new servicing model in Windows Server

Microsoft also plans to update its current System Center versions in order to (partly) support the new Operating Systems.