Matt Hester's WebLog

Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 GA and RTM dates announced

TAIPEI, Taiwan — June 3, 2009 — The company is confident with the progress made with Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2, and that as a result, Microsoft will deliver Release to Manufacturing (RTM) code to partners in the second half of July. Windows 7 will become generally available on Oct. 22, 2009, and Windows Server 2008 R2 will be broadly available at the same time.

“As we’ve said many times, quality is our primary goal,” Guggenheimer said. “We announce each milestone once we’re confident of where we are in the development cycle and that it is ready to be shared with customers and partners. We’ve received great feedback from our partners who are looking forward to offering Windows 7 to their customers in time for the holidays.”

In addition to this, Guggenheimer announced that Microsoft will make available an upgrade option, so partners can offer customers the ability to purchase a Windows Vista-based PC and install Windows 7 when it’s ready.

“Microsoft has been working closely with partners to help our mutual customers be able to enjoy the many benefits of Windows 7,” he said. “With that in mind, we’re excited to say that there will be a Windows upgrade program available. Consumers can buy that new PC, whether for a student heading off to college or just because they need a new one, and know they’ll get Windows 7 as part of the deal.”

The actual start date for the program will be announced when it is ready for consumers, and partners are ready to provide details to customers.

Today’s keynote address is Guggenheimer’s second at Computex. The last time he spoke at the show, he had just taken over the helm of OEM, the division that works with hardware manufacturers worldwide to integrate Microsoft technologies and bring PCs, laptops, mobile handsets and other devices to life.

Although the economic realities of the past year have created new challenges for customers, partners and the IT industry, Guggenheimer says the power of innovation, through both software and broad collaboration with partners, will continue to benefit consumers, the industry and the economy at large.

“What we’re doing with Windows will continue to improve people’s lives so that that technology enables them to communicate better, make tasks simpler and new things possible,” he says. “Our partners in the hardware space, our competitors in software — the entire industry is doing incredible things.”

Read the rest of the press pass here: Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 Timelines Shared at Computex

Now Open: Take the Bing Challenge and tell us what you think!

I am excited we just recently launched Bing!  I have been using Live Search for years, and I have not used any other engines, including google.  I really have enjoyed seeing the progress of Search and Bing is a game changer, try it for a week and I bet you will not go back!

Try it for a week and tell us what you think or comment here!.  If you like Bing, make Bing your default search by following the instructions here. 

Here are some things you can look forward to!

• Better Results:
  
  Get hard to find information, like customer service numbers, with authoritative results. Try it.
  Save time with a 5 day weather forecast for your location. Try it.
  Find instant real time traffic for your area. Try it.
  
• Organized Results:

Categorized search results with the Explorer Pane and Quick Tabs help you find relevant information more quickly. Try it.

• Accomplish Tasks:
  
  Simplify shopping online, compare and read reviews with Opinion Ranking, and save with cashback. Try it.
  Simplify airline travel and find out if now is the right time to buy your ticket. Try It.

Windows 7 XP mode and IE 8 project powered by IT Pro Momentum

While I would have liked to see this project avoid IE6 all together, I suppose I can say this is a great way to look at Win7 XP mode.  This was an interesting project, and how to work with a web application and browser compatibility

Objectives of the project:  What problem did you set out to solve?

To overcome the issues with the manufactures service website I use for work and IE7 & 8

Are you piloting or deploying the products?:

I will now use virtual Windows XP to access the website I use among other manufactures sites

Products used in the project (all that apply):

Windows 7 running Virtual Windows XP

Project description: 

With the manufactures service website I use for work and IE7 & 8 there is a big compatibility issue and only at present support IE6

Were the objective stated at the beginning satisfied?

Yes my objectives were to run IE6 in Windows 7 and I have achieved this thus solving my problem

What do you think about the IT Pro Momentum program? 

I would have still done this project but wouldn’t have reported on it.  One issue I faced was that when I first tried to run the msi in virtual xp it told me the file was write protected and I had to take ownership and untick read only in the properties for the msi it then worked fine.

Learn About Surface 5 part video series now showing!

My good friend and teammate Jennifer Marsman just posted a great 5 part series on Surface.  As you know from my Interview with Rick Barazza at SXSW, I think the device is awesome as well.  Enjoy the series below:

• Surface Development Part 1: What is the Microsoft Surface?  This is a good overview link on the coolness that is Surface!
  
• Surface Development Part 2: Surface Controls  This talks about the enhancements of developing for Surface controls.  Many of the Surface controls derive from and have similar functionality to corresponding WPF controls, but provide extra enhancements for the Surface.
  
• Surface Development Part 3: ScatterView  How does Surface provide 360 degree views of applications?  The ScatterView control quickly enables 360-degree applications.
  
• Surface Development Part 4: Reacting to Physical Objects  When you place a Zune or other devices on the Surface it is recognized by tags.  Surface has the ability to recognize and respond to actual physical real-world objects placed on the Surface top, and it does this by means of tags.
  
• Surface Development Part 5: Futures and Resources  Checkout the roadmap on where Surface is headed!

Unleashed Events, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Detroit Q/A from the events

Good morning everyone.  I finally got a little time off the road to post the Q/A from the live events I have done over the last few weeks.  Please let me know if I have missed any or if you have any additional comments, I am sure I probably forgot some questions let me know and enjoy!

Before you see the questions are some resources for you:

In Detroit there was mention of a few users groups, and you heard from Hermine Turner who is the President of FHITUG (Focus: HOPE IT User Group), and the secretary for the MISBSUG (Michigan Small Business Server User Group).  Both groups are open to the public and more information is below:

FHITUG:

Is a general IT user group that meets on the 1^st Saturday of the month from 9:00 to 11:30 am in Detroit, MI.

• The next meeting may be found here - http://www.clicktoattend.com/?id=136457
• More information about the user group may be found at our web site – www.fhitug.org
• Emails inquiries may be sent to – info@fhitug.org

IMISBSUG:

Is a Microsoft SMB Partner and Customer User Group. MISBS Meets the second Wednesday of the month from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm at the Microsoft Office in Southfield, MI.

• The next meeting may be found here - http://www.clicktoattend.com/?id=138698
• More information about the user group may be found at – www.misbs.com
• Email inquiries may be sent to – secretary@misbs.com

Article you may find interesting on Windows 7 from TomsHardware.com, Thanks Paulie:

Windows 7 Release Candidate: Now What?

Here are the questions:

Question: Is the .NET framework on Windows Server 2008 R2 enough to run SQL?
Answer: Officially right now there is no support for all version of SQL on core, but there is a good channel 9 article here: http://channel9.msdn.com/posts/philpenn/How-To-Develop-NET-Applications-for-Windows-Server-2008-R2-Server-Core/

Question: What clients can connect to a hosted branch cache machine?
Answer: Windows 7

Question: Can you run Branch Cache in a workgroup home network?
Answer: No, the configuration does require group policy among other AD dependencies

Question: Where can I can get a PowerShell command reference for AD Recycle Bin?
Answer: Here is a good place to start: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd392260(WS.10).aspx

Question: How is Windows 2008 R2 Clustering support in relation to GEO clusters?
Answer: Looks like there are some good new features on multi-site, take a look here for more information: http://blogs.msdn.com/clustering/archive/2009/03/18/9488114.aspx

Question: Can you enable step-recorder remotely with PowerShell?
Answer: I cannot find the right PowerShell command to make this work yet, stay tuned.

Question: Is there a Windows 7 connector for Home Server?
Answer: Yes, although I am leery of the connector it seems to function, I recommend that you wait to see if we come out with one when Windows 7 releases and it can be found here: http://www.homeserverhacks.com/2009/01/running-windows-home-server-connector.html

Question: Public Bitlocker recovery key program?
Answer: I had made a comment a public storage location for bitlocker keys, unfortunately that program was discontinued in August 2009, read more here: 

http://blogs.zdnet.com/microsoft/?p=1762

Interop Road Show Screencasts

As some of you know I have been delivering road shows across the country.  We even did a simulcast with a webcast from the Downers Grove event.  This event we did a great job, although the demo videos may not have been the best quality, but you can see that web cast here:

Integrate Your IT Environment, Roadshow Questions, Answers, and Resources 

My buddy Keith decided to record some great high quality audio and video screencasts from the session one demos, which showed how Linux authenticated against and Active Directory network.  Take a look at them below, Keith really did a great job!

• Screencasts: Windows Server 2008 Interop with Linux and OS X 

Keith did a great job on the screencasts let me know what you think. 

Also remember we are delivering the roadshow in Columbus and LA.  Come out and see us live!

Attention: Columbus, OH and Los Angeles, CA: Interop Roadshow events just added, sign up now!

Piloting the future with Windows 7 and XP Mode powered by Momentum

Here is another interesting project that was powered by IT Pro Momentum.  This project really shows the power of the program can provide even to our developer brethren.  This project is being run by a software developer who supports local clients with technical solutions to make their business run smoothly and efficiently.

This project even piloted one of recently announced additions to Windows 7 XP mode. The project overall was an implementation of Windows 7 XP mode to get old accounting software and Hotel management software work on client machines with upcoming OS update across ~ 60+ machines over 9 sites.

What was the initial motivation to start this project?

Our clients in Hotel industry used custom made Hotel Management and accounting software's which did not worked on Windows Vista and this prevented them to upgrade to a secure operating environment then Windows XP.

How did you find your experience with momentum?

It was a simple project which did not required any special help, but after going through momentum help forums I am sure it will be a great help.

Overall implementation so far some technical details:

My clients are looking for a secure operating system with support for new technology but legacy application compatibility prevented upgrading, with Windows 7 and its Virtual XP mode this is now possible. Simple installation and use with excellent results that provided 100% compatibility with legacy applications with all benefits and security of newer operating system.

What are the future plans to expand pilot or roll out the technology company-wide

Upgrade client Windows XP systems to Windows 7 with XP mode when the OS starts retailing.

A Nice Project for Windows 2008 and Windows 7 Deployment powered by Momentum

Here is another interesting project that was powered by IT Pro Momentum, this project focused on Windows Server 2008 and Windows 7, and the feedback about the program and products is really good.

Here is a description of the project:

Piloting Windows Server 2008 Web Edition before moving to production web servers, Running full install with GUI support.  This has been installed on an old decommissioned Domain controller.  The install went through flawlessly and then was turned over to web developers which so far have not had any issues with the server.  Windows 7 Piloting for replacement of Windows XP once released for new machines in the environment.  Currently running on an Compaq nx9420 issues that have been run across are VoIP client does not completely work but we are in the process of getting an update from the vendor for compatible version.  I did have an occurrence last week where Trend Micro’s listener service was causing a BSOD but the problem has not reoccurred.  Overall it has been a good pilot so far the speed and responsiveness is very respectful.

Did the project solve the problem?

For Windows server 2008 the objective was satisfied.  For Windows 7 the objective has almost been satisfied with the wait for the updated phone client.

This is my favorite quote.  What do you think about the IT Pro Momentum program?

I would have done these projects without IT PRO Momentum but it would have made things more difficult with using 120 evaluation copies that time out.  So far I do not have any complaints about the program it has been smooth sailing since I sent Matt a request to join the program all the responses from Matt and the IT Pro Team have been done in a timely manner.

Migration to Windows Server 2008 from Novell Powered by Momentum

Here is another interesting project that was powered by IT Pro Momentum.  This project was just an initial step with many more to come

This project led by another IT Profession, like myself and many others decided to turn their passion and hobby for technology into a career in the great field of IT support.  With responsibilities for implementation and support for 25 servers in corporate office and 15 remote locations, servicing approx 175 PC's

This project was spawned out of the need to migrate Novell, to quote the project lead.

What was the initial motivation to start this project?

Existing Novell environment getting tired and difficult to integrate with new applications and changing business needs

How did you find your experience with momentum?

Excellent so far. The forums are useful to view other peoples experiences with the technologies.

How to get it approved or business justification?

This was quite easy. Firstly, the better integration of Windows server and Active Directory with 3rd party applications was a major selling point, as we have had issues with integrating applications with the existing Novell environment for some time. The fact that the Windows/AD combination is the de-facto standard helped this greatly.  Secondly, the cost of implementing Windows/AD actually came out cheaper than a refresh of our Novell software.

Overall implementation so far some technical details:

This change goes hand in hand with a move to virtual infrastructure using a VMware Infrastructure solution. Also, the plan is to consolidate and centralize our remote branch office services to our head office datacenter. Windows/AD seems to be much better suited to our current and future needs in this regard.  Has all been good, with no major problems to mention. The only thing to do differently, would be to make the move earlier!

What are some of the gains from this project?

Improved capacity for integration with 3rd party apps, more knowledge/support availability than other technologies, easier access to expert assistance if required. So far, no negatives to speak of, is looking extremely promising, and the technology is actually quite cool to play with.  The better integration of 3rd party applications with Windows/AD is the driver here.

What are some Future plans to expand on this project? pilot or roll out the technology company-wide

The intention is to move the entire company server infrastructure to Windows, including our SAP system(currently running on Sun Solaris), using file/print and AD as the initial step.

As you can see momentum really helped this customer, with a great project!

Windows Vista SP1 project Powered By Momentum

Here is another interesting project that was powered by IT Pro Momentum

This next project was run by a network engineer who had responsibilities that including: Server Maintenance/Installation, Systems Administration and in general to keep the Network up.  With over 38 servers and 200 clients machines on the network that is comprised of Windows 2003 servers, Linux, VMWare ESX, SQL and Oracle.

Having started their IT career in the dream job, at least for me, working for a gaming company after earning a degree in Electronic Engineering Technology, the initial motivation for the working with IT Pro Momentum program is an issue we have all faced with Windows Vista, around software compatibility.

This person has found the experience of the program to be very helpful:

My experience with Momentum has been great so far the access to the TechNet library and all the support information has come in very helpful

Currently the project is still in progress of being successful:

Currently we are unable to get the in house application working on Vista or Windows 7 due to an issue with Oracle.  We are waiting on a phone system update to allow the client to work in Vista.  Once we can get all the needed applications working on one machine we can then duplicate for a test bed of users.

So while the program is still in progress Momentum has provided the framework and resources to get this project going and hopefully become successful!

Windows 2008 R2 and Windows 7 Deployment powered by Momentum

For the next few posts, I will be sharing real customer stories and success with deploying Microsoft Technologies through the free IT Pro Momentum program, to learn more about the program click here:

IT Pro Momentum Program: Still Accepting Applications 

Here is an interested project that was powered by IT Pro Momentum.  This project was for a person that administers desktops and servers as well as evaluate and deploy new technologies and administer storage for a Paperless office.  That also got involved with IT early on like most of we started early in Jr. High and High School to parlay that into a role that would get us into the networking and support positions that would lead to a full IT Position. 

Here is some information from the project:

What was the initial motivation to start this project?

“The windows 7 Project is one I have been playing with at home and having the Convenience of technical support made me interested in the program. I am curious about security enhancements in server 2007. One issue I have in 2003 is Networked share do not disconnect or time out. (I may need to change a setting here) I am hoping deployment of 2008 may fix this issue. the way I access the network storage is \\(ip Address) the only way i know how to disconnect is restart the client or log off.”

Why Microsoft technologies over competitors?

Stability, availability of software, etc... (I cannot get Office for Mac at Wal-Mart) Microsoft continues to improve the Technology in their software.

Attention: Columbus, OH and Los Angeles, CA: Interop Roadshow events just added, sign up now!

We recently just added two cities to the road show tour: Columbus and LA just got added for June 23rd and June 25th respectively.  Here are the registration links:

Columbus

Tuesday, June 23, 2009 8:30 AM - Tuesday, June 23, 2009 12:30 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada)
Welcome Time: 8:00 AM

Microsoft Office - Columbus

Polaris Center, 8800 Lyra Dr. 4th Floor
Columbus Ohio 43240

Click on link to register: http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032415618&Culture=en-US

Los Angeles

Thursday, June 25, 2009 8:30 AM - Thursday, June 25, 2009 12:30 PM Pacific Time (US & Canada)
Welcome Time: 8:00 AM

Microsoft Los Angeles
333 South Grand Avenue
Suite 3300 Los Angeles California 90071

Click on link to register: http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=1032415619&Culture=en-US 

Is your IT Infrastructure fully dedicated to just one technology solution? Chances are you work in a heterogeneous environment that includes a variety of technologies from Microsoft®, Linux, MySQL and Apple. Integration becomes vital in order for your core business applications to maintain business flow and efficiency. How do you achieve identity integration? Run Open Source Software (OSS) on Windows Server® 2008? Ever wanted to leverage the power of SQL with your PHP applications?

If you answered yes this road show is for you! Here is what we will be talking about.

Session 1:  Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Interop with Linux and OS X

Do you have existing Linux workstations and servers? Are you buying Apple notebooks for your personnel? If so, then you're probably wondering how to secure and share information across your organization. Join us for a session that demonstrates how to authenticate and manage non-Windows operating systems. We'll explore Active Directory (AD) extensions, management tools, security, file sharing, desktop management and a number of other key challenges we all face on a daily basis. Get set for some great demonstrations and plenty of time for questions and answers.

Session 2:  Running Open Source Software (OSS) on Windows Server 2008

Are you afraid to run open source software on Windows Server 2008? Fear no more; it's easier than you think. Come discuss running LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP) on Windows Server 2008. Not interested in Linux? No problem. You'll also learn how to run open source applications with IIS7, MySQL and PHP. Along the way, we'll compare and contrast the optimum maintenance, operation and monitoring of these diverse systems and applications. This session will include several informative demonstrations and you'll get plenty of time to ask questions.

Session 3:  SQL Server 2008 and PHP Web Application Infrastructure

Do you want to take advantage of SQL Server's great new features for your PHP sites? Join us for this session and learn how to make it happen. We'll show you how to leverage your existing development resources and PHP knowledge by simply changing the backend to Microsoft SQL Server 2008. We'll walk through the necessary steps to get PHP and SQL Server working together and you'll see how to enjoy a successful deployment and post-deployment experience. You'll also learn where to find the information you need when you deploy and scale PHP on SQL Server, including details about security, performance, backup, managing and monitoring. After the step-by-step deployment instructions and some helpful working demos, we'll be happy to entertain your questions.

Be sure to check out the cool prizes you have a chance to win if you attend!!!   See the prize rules.

Integrate Your IT Environment, Roadshow Questions, Answers, and Resources

Thank you so much for everyone who attended the Interoperability roadshow the events have been great so far and I am glad we have had a chance to talk about integration. In the events I have delivered I have some great questions and I have some answers for you on this post.

This roadshow also show us a great additional mechanism to deliver the material. During the event we did in Downers Grove last week we simulcast the event, via live meeting. So people around the world joined us virtually as I delivered the session live for the folks in Downers Grove, I have included those questions and answers as well. The live event was also recorded and you can find the links in the resource list below:

Resources:

• Session 1: Active Directory Interoperability with Linux and Apple OS X:
  https://www.livemeeting.com/cc/mseventsbmo/view?id=1032414587-1&role=attend&pw=7975E672
• Session 2: Running Open Source Software (OSS) on Windows Server 2008
  https://www.livemeeting.com/cc/mseventsbmo/view?id=1032414587-2&role=attend&pw=7975E672
• Session 3: Installing and Using PHP with SQL Server 2008
  https://www.livemeeting.com/cc/mseventsbmo/view?id=1032414587-3&role=attend&pw=7975E672
• Slide Decks: http://www.technetevents.com/interop/resources
• PHP Driver for SQL:
  http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=61BF87E0-D031-466B-B09A-6597C21A2E2A&displaylang=en
• PHP Training kit:
  http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?displaylang=en&FamilyID=c8498c9b-a85a-4afa-90c0-593d0e4850cb

Here are the questions:

Question: How difficult to change the password from the Linux system?
Answer: The passwords are synced, you can change it on either side.

Question: How would you add a user to sudoer's file?
Answer: You can control sudo, and discrete levels of permissions two ways. You can do that in the Centrify zone, or via the AD Group policies. He is going to demo the group policy object flow in a moment.

Question: What tool is Matt using to display the SLED system's desktop, VNC, NoMachines NX Client or something else?
Answer: He is using Virtual PC 2007 SP1 and that interface

Question: How much does the Centrify AD tool cost?
Answer: Check with your local centrify rep on licensing, you can find that out here: http://www.centrify.com/

Question: The changes he is making now disable PHP in apache ... correct?
Answer: PHP is now set to run with IIS7 so it would probably mess Apache up rather nicely. However, you can run multiple versions of PHP on the same box, so you could run one instance for Apache, and another for IIS. There is a link coming up in the slides to an article that discusses doing that.

Question: Can you run the AMP stack on W2K3 server and IIS6?
Answer: Yes you can. There are some straight forward steps to make it work, if you do a quick search you can find out more, here is 1 example: http://www.simongibson.com/intranet/php2003/

Question: Where can I get the IT Pro History video:
Answer: You can find it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbFLY6Z58uU

Question: Can you configure the PHP driver for SQL for SQL 2005?
Answer: Yes, SQL 2005 is supported

Question: Can you configure the PHP driver for SQL on Windows 2003?
Answer: Yes Windows 2003 is supported as well as Windows 2000.

Question: How do you work with multiple versions of PHP on IIS?
Answer: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/305052

Question: Can you manage AD from open source systems?
Answer: While I could not find any built-in tools to give you wizard style management, given the proper permissions you could use LDAP editing tools to accomplish this.

Question: Can you use a Windows Core Server 2008 for AMP?
Answer: Yes, and here is a great article: http://www.markwilson.co.uk/blog/2007/07/apache-http-server-on-windows-server-2008-server-core.htm

Question: Where can I get more information for Subsystem for UNIX-based Applications (SUA)?
Answer: SUA was available for Windows 2003 and source-compatibility subsystem for compiling and running custom UNIX-based applications on a computer running a Windows server-class operating system. You can make your UNIX applications fully interoperable with Windows in SUA with little or no change to your original source code. You can learn more here: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc779522.aspx

Still accepting entries for the Windows 7 Rocks Screencast Contest: Only 15 days left!!!!!!

It is crunch time folks there are only 15 days left in the Windows 7 Rocks Screencast Contest.  We are still accepting entries into the contest!

For the original post and more about the contest take a look here: Announcement: Windows 7 Rocks Screencast Contest: Now Accepting Applications!

In a nutshell:

Here are the prizes:

• Grand Prize - Lenovo ThinkPad T61p notebook computer
• First Place - 60GB XBOX 360 game console
• Second Place - 120GB Zune media player
• Third Place - 8GB Zune Media player

So what do you have to do to enter? 

• Create a Screencast before April 30th and…
• Drop the screencast at your favorite location, so we can download it (Remember it has to be Silverlight Compatible).
• Send me an email with:
  • Your name
  • Address
  • Phone
  • Email Address
  • Link to your the Screencast

*No Purchase Necessary. Open only to technology professional and enthusiasts of the 50 US States (includes D of C). Game ends April 30, 2009. For full rules click HERE.

Windows Client Road Show Featuring Windows 7 and Internet Explorer 8

Spring brings not only rain and flowers (you know, April shows and May flowers), it also brings our spring technical events. And this time our technical events are taking on a slightly different form.

Okay, to be completely honest, we are still calling the sessions ArcReady (our event for architects and those who want to become architects), MSDN Events Unleashed (for the developer), and the new TechNet Events Unleashed (for the IT Professional). But we are also doing something different for the spring event series: there's a single, connected theme running throughout all events.

And what is that theme, you ask? It's all things next generation Windows client, featuring Windows 7 and Internet Explorer 8!

ArcReady – Brain Food for the Architect
The client (or presentation) tier of our applications is taking on an increasingly important role. Users are expecting more compelling user interfaces, but they also want more functionality from their applications. In this ArcReady we examine how to design and deliver well architected client applications that will be easy to maintain and extend.

Topic 1: Trends and Patterns on the Client Tier
In our first topic we will take a vendor and platform neutral look at some of the trends and emerging technologies that can be used on the client tier. We will look at techniques like Mashups, technologies like Natural User Interfaces (NUI) and the increasing importance of the mobile platform. We will also look at some common patterns that can be used in the architecture of the client tier.

Topic 2: Applying Microsoft Technology on the Client Tier
In our second topic we will take some look at how we can use Microsoft technologies to create well architected and compelling client applications. We will look at technologies like Silverlight and WPF that can be used to create compelling clients. We will also look at technologies that can be used to make your applications more extensible for future development. We will also examine some architectural guidance developed by the Microsoft Patterns and Practices group.

MSDN Events Unleashed – Get Your Dev On
Internet Explorer 8 recently released to the web, and with that release comes a wide range of new capabilities that developers can exploit. Of even more impact to developers everywhere is the upcoming release of Windows 7, also bringing with it several new capabilities for consumers and developers.

Topic 1: Internet Explorer 8 for Developers
The Windows Internet Explorer 8 browser makes it easier to explore and interact with the web. Did you know that there will be a new standards mode by default? While it can easily be turned off, knowing the potential to impact this may have on many sites that have been crafted around various features in past versions is a good idea. Attend this session to learn which current practices you need to change and how the new standards mode affects your development techniques and your existing sites. We review tools that are built into Internet Explorer 8 to help developers debug and create Web pages. We also discuss Web Slices, Accelerators, and Search Suggestion – all of which are key new features in this latest release.

Topic 2: Developing on Microsoft Windows 7
Building applications that are easy to use, visually appealing, and offer high performance is a challenge that developers face every day. Innovative applications can greatly improve the user experience, empowering companies to differentiate their services and solutions. However, developers are increasingly asked to do more in less time, while also optimizing the power and performance requirements of their applications. The Windows 7 platform makes it easy for developers to create engaging, user-friendly applications by providing familiar tools and rich development features that allow them to take advantage of the latest PC capabilities. In this session we will explore the new Taskbar and Jump Lists, the Scenic Ribbon, file management with Libraries, and Windows Web Services among many other enhancements to the new operating system.

TechNet Events Unleashed – Supporting the Backbone of the Industry
Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 7, and Internet Explorer 8 represent both a wave of change and disruption to IT operations as well as an opportunity for IT professionals to have a big impact on their organizations.

Topic 1: Windows Server 2008 R2 – Optimize Your Time
Get a jump start on your peers with Windows Server 2008 R2 by joining us for this no nonsense technical session, where we will discuss the critical improvements in the next version of Windows Server. Some have argued that, given the impressive scope of new functionality in Windows Server 2008 R2, it should not be an “R2” release, but rather should be given a completely new name. They point to features such as Direct Access, Branch Caching, Live Migration, Powershell 2.0, and VDI that will help you cut down on the amount of time you spend doing mundane tasks, reduce end user frustration and support headaches, and give your mobile workforce a competitive edge through ubiquitous access to company data. There’s a good chance that by attending this session you’ll find a way to save time and money with Windows Server 2008 R2, and so you’ll get the time you spend with us back many times over.

Topic 2: Windows 7 – Maximize Your Potential
In designing Windows 7, the engineering team had a clear focus on what we call ‘the fundamentals': performance, application compatibility, device compatibility, reliability, security and battery life. Early reviews of Windows 7 seem to indicate that the choice to focus on the fundamentals is resonating well with many users and professionals. And, IT professionals will further benefit from the enhancements to manageability and security. You’ll also learn how your investments in testing and evaluating Windows Vista will pay off in the transition to Windows 7. Come see firsthand what all the buzz is about in this demo-intensive session where we explore the UI improvements, performance gains, and manageability enhancements in the next client operating system from Microsoft.

Topic 3: Internet Explorer 8 – Get Excited About the Browser Again
Internet Explorer is currently the most widely used browser in business, and while we’ve seen nice incremental improvements to IE in recent history, we haven’t seen as many truly earth shattering changes. Well, many agree that the next release of IE, Internet Explorer 8, provides the most compelling upgrade to IE in many years. In a typical day, users spend 2 hours or more per day in the browser, so significant improvements here can have tremendous impact on productivity and the way we work. The browser needs to be thought of in the same terms as an operating system—it has to be rich, robust, interoperable, easy to use and secure. Internet Explorer 8 is a browser that meets these needs and more for users, enterprises, IT professionals and developers alike. Come learn how the new improvements, too numerous to mention here, are driving many to get excited about the browser again.

Event Schedule
Here is a quick summary of the events scheduled this spring, starting in late April and concluding in mid-June.