Last week Microsoft announced that they will discontinue the Essential Business Server version of the Windows Server Operating System, effective 30 June 2010.
Why? Read on for more information…
Now this does not mean that Microsoft will stop supporting EBS from that date! It will still be supported and options will be available, for instance when companies decide to transition to other technologies.
For additional information, check out the EBS Team Blog
For your convenience I have picked the information out of that blog which explains it:
Several changes have occurred that drove our decision to streamline our server product portfolio. First, midsize businesses are rapidly turning to technologies such as management, virtualization and cloud computing as a means to cut costs, improve efficiency, and increase competitiveness. Those capabilities are already available through other offerings, including Windows Server 2008 R2, Microsoft System Center and the Microsoft Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS).
Secondly, Microsoft remains fully committed to small and medium-sized businesses. We recognize that ending future editions of EBS could result in additional cost and complexity for our EBS customers. Therefore, we are going to provide a limited offer for all EBS 2008 customers. Beginning on June 30, 2010 through December 31, 2010, current EBS 2008 customers can get the individual component software from the EBS 2008 suite for free (local taxes, shipping and handling charges may apply). To learn more about this offer, EBS customers can visit http://www.microsoft.com/ebs
Now I’m wondering if Microsoft will give EBS a farewell party or at least a golden handshake?