Introduces BranchCache, a new feature in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 that reduces WAN link utilization and improves application responsiveness.
Provides an overview of the BranchCache feature introduced in Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7. After a thorough introduction of BranchCache and its modes of operation, the document describes BranchCache configuration. It then provides troubleshooting details and a list of tools to be used by BranchCache administrators.
BranchCache™ is designed to reduce WAN link utilization and improve application responsiveness for branch office workers who access content from servers in remote locations. Branch office client computers use a locally maintained cache of data to reduce traffic over a WAN link. The cache can be distributed across client computers (distributed cache mode) or can be housed on a server in the branch (hosted cache mode).
BranchCache is designed to prevent unauthorized access to content. Content is encrypted when transferred between peers or between clients and the hosted cache server. Content can only be decrypted using the identifiers provided by the content server in the main office. The content server will only provide identifiers to authorized clients. BranchCache supports the optimization of downloads over end-to-end secure transports such as HTTPS and IPsec.
BranchCache only optimizes traffic flows between Windows Server® 2008 R2 servers and Windows® 7 clients. The BranchCache feature is an optional component on Windows Server 2008 R2 and must be installed and enabled before BranchCache can be used. To optimize SMB traffic, the file server role must be enabled. BranchCache is installed on Windows 7 client computers by default, but IT administrators must enable BranchCache and create firewall rules to enable traffic between client computers.
To Download complete Click here
The Microsoft Application Compatibility Toolkit (ACT) version 5.5 contains the necessary tools and documentation to evaluate and mitigate application compatibility issues before deploying Windows 7, Windows Vista®, a Windows Update, or a new version of Windows® Internet Explorer® in your environment.
The Microsoft Application Compatibility Toolkit (ACT) 5.5 helps customers understand their application compatibility situation by identifying which applications are compatible with the Windows 7 RC and Windows Vista® operating system and which require further testing. ACT helps customers lower their costs for application compatibility testing, prioritize their applications, and deploy Windows more quickly. You can use the ACT features to:
System Requirements
Important: The Application Compatibility Manager, the Internet Explorer Compatibility Test Tool, and the Compatibility Administrator are not supported on Windows 2000; however, you can run data collection packages and the Setup Analysis Tool on computers running Windows 2000 with Service Pack 4 (SP4) and Update Rollup 1.
DOWNLOAD HERE
Well, here it is, Microsoft Exchange Server 2010 Beta available on Microsoft.com/download.
Microsoft Exchange Server 2010 helps you achieve new levels of reliability and performance by delivering features that help to simplify your administration, protect your communications, and delight your users by meeting their demands for greater business mobility.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD
Microsoft Exchange® Server 2010 Beta helps IT Professionals achieve new levels of reliability with greater flexibility, enhanced user experiences, and increased protection for business communications.
This software is intended for evaluation purposes only. You must accept the license terms before you are authorized to use this software. There is no product support for this trial software. You are welcome to participate in the forums to share your trial experiences with others and to ask for advice.
Note: Registration required to download.
Exchange Server 2010 Beta Prerequisites If these required prerequisites are not already installed, the Exchange Server 2010 Beta setup process will prompt and provide links to the installation locations; Internet access will be required if the prerequisites are not already installed or available on a local network.
Actual requirements will vary based on system configuration and specific features installed. For more detailed system requirements, please refer to the Exchange Server 2010 Technical Documentation Library. For a list of Windows Server 2008 requirements, visit http://technet.microsoft.com/windowsserver/2008.
The downloadable software is for evaluation purposes only and is not a released product. If you plan to install the software on your primary computer, it is recommended that you back up your existing data prior to installation. Before you install the Microsoft® Exchange Server 2010 Beta, we recommend that you review the summary of system requirements and technical information located in the Exchange Server 2010 Technical Documentation Library. Expiration Notice This time-limited, free beta version of Microsoft® Exchange Server 2010 will end 360 days after installation. To learn more about Microsoft® Exchange Server 2010 visit http://www.microsoft.com/exchange/2010
QUICK UPDATE
Thanks to Rob Sealock’s Blog for the following update.
https://www.microsoftelearning.com/eLearning/offerDetail.aspx?offerPriceId=249671
Collection 6899: Exploring Features of Exchange Server 2010
Overview
This two-hour collection provides you with an overview of the new features in Exchange Server 2010. It also describes the enhancements made over Exchange Server 2007. The clinics within this collection cover:
ENJOY
Covers the functional and architectural aspects of DirectAccess, a technology introduced in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 to enable mobile workers to seemlessly connect to enterprise network resources when connected to the Internet.
Describes DirectAccess in technical detail, covering why the technology is useful to enterprises with a mobile workforce and the different architectures and technologies that DirectAccess uses to manage mobile connection, authentication, and authorization. Compares selected server and full enterprise network access architectures, describes the step-by-step connection process for mobile computers and users, and summarizes requirements.
The Windows® 7 and Windows Server® 2008 R2 operating systems introduce DirectAccess, a new solution that provides users with the same experience working remotely as they would have when working in the office. With DirectAccess, remote users can access corporate file shares, Web sites, and applications without connecting to a virtual private network (VPN).
DirectAccess establishes bi-directional connectivity with the user’s enterprise network every time the user’s DirectAccess-enabled portable computer is connected to the Internet, even before the user logs on. With DirectAccess, users never have to think about whether they are connected to the corporate network. DirectAccess also benefits IT by allowing network administrators to manage remote computers outside of the office, even when the computers are not connected to a VPN. DirectAccess enables organizations with regulatory concerns to extend regulatory compliance to roaming computer assets.
This paper describes the benefits of DirectAccess, how it works, and what you will need to deploy it in your organization.
To Download guide Click Here
Well in my previous post you must have read that Tech.Ed is back this year with full bang.
What is TechEd ?
Microsoft Tech·Ed is the premier technical education and networking event for any technology professional interested in learning, connecting and exploring a broad set of current and soon-to-be release Microsoft® technologies, tools, platforms and services.
To better serve the distinct needs of the developer and IT professional communities, Microsoft constantly looks for the best, most efficient channels to educate both developers and IT professionals on the latest technology developments.
Yes, the premiere event for all the technology professional. The platform where professionals can expect to get the latest and greatest offerings from Microsoft. The TechEd over the time is very much popular amongst the peers. Many professionals want to attend the event for grasping knowledge and connecting with peers, and guess what we have knowledge from the leading experts and entertainment nights.
Let’s go back a couple of years back…remember TechMela 2007
TechMela as it’s called in its new incarnation, which is an amalgamation of TechEd, Mix, MEDC and ITPC all happened at the same time, same place. TechMela happened in 2007 and it was huge success. The name TechMela was given to have classis Indian feel or call it a theme for the event. This mega event was attended by more that 2500+ attendees including CXOs, Professionals, Enthusiasts. The event seen top CXO and senior decision makers attending the event and leveraging it for the betterment of the industry. For many individuals and enthusiasts it was nothing but the dream come true.
The TechMela 2007 experience was breathtaking; The first day started out with an address by a high-placed panel comprising Ravi Venkatesan, Chairman of Microsoft India; Steve Guggenheimer, General Manager of Microsoft's Application Platform and Development; Sam Pitroda, Chairman of the National Knowledge Commission; and Tarun Gulati, General Manager of Microsoft India's Developer and Platform Evangelism.
Back to TechEd India 2009
There are different aspects of having TechEd. The TechEd happening this time at Hyderabad, May 13th-15th, 2009. This time TechEd is not happening across multiple cities as it used to happen. The preparation starts for the event way before anyone think of TechEd. The planning team at Microsoft working hard to achieve the state-of-the-art setup for making the event and overall experience memorable for the attendees. Everyone is aware about the current economic situation across the globe, where situation is not yet under control, we at Microsoft had decided to continue with the legacy and have the TechEd.
We @ TechEd India 2009 are always game for it to deliver the greatest and the best.
DOWNLOAD TechEd Theme Song.
DOWNLOAD TechEd Song Lyrics.
Watch out for more reading about TechEd India.
Regards, TechEd India 2009
Brief Description
Describes the networking enhancements available in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 and their benefit to enterprise networks.
A detailed look at new networking technologies in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2, with particular emphasis on enhancements to improve connectivity for a mobile workforce. New features and enhancments including DirectAccess, BranchCache, VPN Reconnect, mobile broadband device support, URL-based QoS, DNSSEC, and support for green computing.
To Download Guide click here
Windows 7 Beta is attracting a lot of buzz recently, and here is your chance to dive in the same. Attend the one-day workshop to gear up on all the necessary skills to get started on Windows 7 efficiently.
Gurgaon (Hosts: Delhi IT Pro): Register here
Mumbai (Hosts: Mumbai IT Pro): Register here
Pune (Hosts: Pune User Group): Register here
Bangalore (Hosts: Bangalore IT Pro): Register here
Chennai (Hosts: Chennai IT Pro)
Siliguri (Hosts WindowsSupport)
Registration for the event is free.
Please obtain your own Product Key by visiting: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/beta-download.aspx
SPECIAL NOTE:
I wanted to share some quick tips if you’re attending Install Fest so that you get the best possible experience.
Thank you for participating in the Windows 7 Beta. To help make sure you have a great experience, please read this section before you install the software—even if you've previously been a beta tester.
The Windows 7 Beta is a pre-release version of Windows. While we consider this a stable and high-quality beta, it's not the finished product. It could crash your computer or cause you to lose important files or information.
The Beta will stop working on August 1, 2009. To continue using your PC, please be prepared to reinstall a prior version of Windows or a subsequent release of Windows 7 before the expiration date. You won't be able to upgrade from the Beta to the final retail version of Windows 7.
Important Note to Internet Explorer 8 Beta testers: If you're already testing Internet Explorer 8, please be aware that the version in the Windows 7 Beta is at a different stage of release. If you're beta-testing Windows 7, you need to use the version of Internet Explorer 8 that comes with it.
To learn more, see Windows 7 Beta: Frequently Asked Questions.
Do install the Beta only on a dedicated test computer.
Do make frequent backups while testing the Beta. You can back up files to an external hard disk, a DVD or CD, or a network folder. (See How to backup a PC.)
Do prepare a recovery disc. A recovery disc restores your computer to its out-of-the-box state. Most computers come with one. If yours didn't, contact your PC maker.
Do update your antivirus program, run it, and then disable it before installing the Beta. After you install the Beta, remember to re-enable the antivirus program.
Do connect to the Internet after you install the Beta. Being connected helps make sure you get useful security and hardware updates. (If you don't have an Internet connection, you can still install the Beta.)
Do download the Release Notes. Release Notes provide important information that you should know before installing and using Windows 7. You should familiarize yourself with all of the known issues in this document prior to installing the software. For example, the Release Notes describe a bug in which MP3 files may become corrupted and provide information on mitigating risk.
Don't install the Beta if you're uncomfortable troubleshooting your own PC problems. Microsoft does not provide technical support for the Windows 7 Beta.
Don't install the Beta on your primary home or work computer. Microsoft is not responsible for downtime stemming from the Windows 7 Beta.
Microsoft’s technical advisors and local experts will be on-hand to assist you and share how they’re taking advantage of Windows 7. They’ll demonstrate some tips and tricks to make the most of your experience of Windows 7, as well as highlight elements relevant to you.
Deep Zoom Composer prepares images for use with the Deep Zoom feature in Silverlight 2
We are pleased to present a technology preview of Deep Zoom Composer, a tool to allow the preparation of images for use with the Deep Zoom feature currently being previewed in Silverlight 2. The new Deep Zoom technology in Silverlight allows users to see images on the Web like they never have before. The smooth in-place zooming and panning that Deep Zoom allows is a true advancement and raises the bar on what image viewing should be.
High resolution images need to be prepared for use with Deep Zoom and this tool allows the user to create Deep Zoom composition files that control the zooming experience and then export all the necessary files for deployment with Silverlight 2. It is fantastic tool for creating deep zoom objects.
My First Deep Zoom Silverlight based page prepared in just 2 minutes.
Windows 7 RC just now available on TechNet and MSDN Subscriptions download center. Those who are having TechNet or MSDN Subscription should be able to download the RC images and product keys.
For TechNet subscribers they can download the Windows 7 RC right now from the following link.
http://technet.microsoft.com/hi-in/subscriptions/downloads/default(en-us).aspx
The Microsoft Tag team is pleased to announce the ability to create custom Tags! You know what a standard Tag looks like, but custom Tags will knock your socks off.
To provide better branding and creative opportunities, you can customize Microsoft Tags by using dots instead of triangles and replacing the background with any image. You can also create a more advanced design by modifying the symbols and incorporating them into the design concept. Customized Tags can be rendered in color or black-and-white.
As part of the custom Tag release, we’re also announcing the Tag Slaps Design Contest. The Tag Slaps Design Contest challenges advertisers, marketers, and designers—or anyone with a passion for design—to create an original custom design Tag and a mobile experience creative concept for it.
What is a Tag Slaps you ask? In the graffiti world, a “slaps” is defined as a sticker with a writer or tagger’s tag on it. A slaps can be spread more quickly than other forms of graffiti, making it a favorite in many places such as newspaper dispensers, stop signs, phone booths, and more.
A slaps is not unlike a Microsoft Tag. With Microsoft Tag, you can now customize the look of a Tag so that it embodies your brand, a message or theme, or a really cool visual! It’s your personal slaps. What’s more is that a Tag can be included on just about anywhere including an advertisement, product packaging, signage, an email or web site, and so much more.
What kind of Tag will you slap?
The contest is NOT open to Microsoft employees, but not to worry, you can still create your own custom Tag. Share the contest details with your advertising and design agency partners and anyone interested in a new design challenge. Contest submissions will be accepted beginning May 4 through June 12; for contest details, please go to http://www.microsoft.com/tag/content/overview/TagSlaps.aspx.
For more information about creating a custom Microsoft Tag, please go to http://www.microsoft.com/tag/content/overview/CustomTags.aspx.
Thanks everyone and have fun creating a custom Tag!
Join the discussion
· Facebook
· Twitter—to tweet the latest information about the contest, please include #tagslaps.
· Microsoft Tag Blog
· Microsoft Tag Discussion (mstagd)
Download the Reader
· Go to http://gettag.mobi from you mobile device
· Send the download link via SMS from www.microsoft.com/tag
HAPPY TAGGING
Always wonder about the decisions made for Windows Operating Systems ? What’s behind those decisions ?
Well, here is Talking About Windows, a new community based site. This site will answer the demanding questions asked by IT Professionals. We have fantastic audience from Microsoft that will guide you and cover the most of the Windows 7 Development phase.
We have IT Professionals and Engineering team behind Windows 7 Development will answer most of your queries. Get guidance on Windows 7 and check out the Springboard Series on TechNet for structured guidance and topical commentary. Subscribe to the feeds on the site and you can get into the discussions.
Specifically, www.TalkingAboutWindows.com offers IT professionals genuine insight on Windows 7 from the Microsoft engineers who helped build the product such as Jon DeVaan, Gabe Al, Sharif Farag, and Mark Russinovich. Additionally, you will hear real world commentary from IT Pro Managers from corporations like Pella, Continental Airlines and others. Be sure to come back to the site as we will be adding more engineering and customer videos in lead up to general availability of Windows 7!
The 2007 Microsoft Office Suite Service Pack 2 (SP2) provides customers with the latest updates to the 2007 Office suite (the products that are affected by this update are listed below). This download includes two types of fixes:
Before installing this service pack, you are strongly encouraged to read 953195, which describes some big improvements introduced by SP2, and also calls out some important information that you should be aware of before installing.