subject: Windows 2003/2008 Server Versions [print this page] There are a couple of options to choose from in regards to which version of the operating system to have installed. Gogax offers three versions of Windows Server 2003/2008: Web, Standard and Enterprise. Each version has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to pick the correct one.
Windows Server 2003/2008 Web Edition is primarily designed for web hosting applications. Here at Gogax, we provide this version free of charge with your dedicated server. Like Standard and Enterprise, the Web Edition can be accessed via Remote Desktop. The Web Edition is also tightly integrated with IIS 6.0 or IIS 7.0 (2008 Editions), .NET Framework, and ASP.NET. This allows for the users to quickly and securely deploy a variety of web endeavors.
That said, there are some limitations that need to be considered. There is only a 32 bit version of Windows Server 2003 Web Edition so as such; this version supports one physical processor and two gigabytes of RAM maximum. In regards to Active Directory and full versions of SQL Server 2005, neither is supported; SQL Server Express is available, however. Additionally, Microsoft Windows Media Services are not supported by Windows Server 2003 Web Edition.
Windows Server 2003/2008 Standard Edition is a full featured server operating system. We can provide a license for this version for $30 per month. It can be configured for just about any common server application that one can think of, such as:
* Web server
* File server
* Print server
* Application server (IIS, ASP.NET)
* Mail server (POP3, SMTP)
* Streaming media server
Windows Server 2003/2008 Standard also has expanded hardware support capabilities. Windows 2003/2008 Standard supports up to four physical processors. Both 32 bit processor architecture and up to four gigabytes of RAM and 64 bit processor architecture with up to 32 gigabytes of RAM. The standard edition is designed primarily for small to medium sized businesses.
Windows 2003/2008 Enterprise Edition takes hardware support a step further by supporting up to 8 processors with up to 64 Gigabytes of RAM supported under the 32 bit version, and up to two terabytes of RAM under the 64 bit version.
Windows Server 2003/2008 Standard and Enterprise both support Active Directory which is the directory service for these versions of the operating system. Also supported are the standard and workgroup versions of SQL Server 2005. These provide very powerful file and database management tools with many different applications. Looking for a Dedicated Hosting Solution for streaming media? Well Windows Server 2003/2008 Standard also supports Windows Media Services.
Regardless of which version you use, you always have the option of adding the Plesk control panel by Parallels. Plesk is a full featured web interface that allows you to access your server from any computer connected to the internet. Plesk is an all in one solution that offers stability, security, ease of use. It can even be set up in one of seven languages. Plesk is a great addition for those who are new to dedicated hosting.
In conclusion, there are several options when it comes to picking a Windows Operating System for a Gogax Dedicated Server. As previously stated, each version has benefits and drawbacks. But as long as the general purpose of the server is known, and with the assistance of our experienced Sales Team, making a decision should be a relatively painless task.
