Windows Home Server – Tips and Tricks from the Field

Windows Home Server (WHS) was originally released as a way for consumers to easily backup, share files with and remote access their home PCs. But it quickly found its way into Small Businesses, either in addition to Small Business Server (SBS), or in some cases, as a replacement for it. WHS has been primarily used in the SMB space for its excellent ability to backup and restore client computers. But some businesses have also used it as a file server and remote access solution.

In this presentation, Fred Gregory will share some of his experiences implementing the current version of Windows Home Server in several different business environments. He’ll cover some tips and tricks to get the best use out of this unique product, as well as some of its limitations that might require another solution. Currently, one of those solutions includes Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation. We’ll look at situations where WHS & Foundation server together provide the “best of both worlds” at a relatively low price.

Home Server V2 - code named Vail - Controversy

The next version of Windows Home Server, code named “Vail” is currently in a beta refresh and we’ll take a brief look at the features. But a couple of recent “bad news” announcements from Microsoft and HP have the Home Server Enthusiast Community up in arms!  We’ll discuss the controversy and explore why Vail will probably not be finding its way into businesses as easily as the current Version has.

Fred Gregory is an IT Professional, a Small Business Specialist and a member of the Executive of ITPro Toronto. He is passionate about sharing functional, cost effective and easy to use technology with his clients as well as his peers.


Fred is such a dedicated Pro that even when he's at the Pub, his MCSE documentation is close at hand.