According to
bink.nu, a website run by an MSCE in the Netherlands named Steven Bink, Microsoft is responding to complaints that XP Pro is too expensive for "structured task workers." Also cited were the need for one set of security, manageability, and serviceability technologies across all clients, and the ability to remotely boot a diskless device.
The two versions are codenamed "Eiger" and "Monch," which, Bink points out, are the names of two mountains in Switzerland. Both will run in as little as 64 MB of RAM with 500 MB of disk space. Eiger is the "thinner" of the two, offering basic functionality such as a remote connection client, local and remote printing, Internet Explorer, and Office viewers. Monch adds wireless networking, VPN support, and advanced IP security. Both versions support the Systems Management Server (SMS) and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).
According to a related story in
ComputerWorld, Microsoft told select partners about the new software back in January. "The motivation for Microsoft is to get a true managed Windows platform on as many desktops as it can. Once they realized that this thin-client model is here to stay, they figured they might as well make an offering that can support SMS, WSUS, etc., to encourage as many people as possible to use these products," said Brian Madden, an independent technology analyst, in an email interview with
ComputerWorld.
Microsoft did not immediately respond to a request by
WindowsForDevices.com for a comment on these rumors.
Related stories:
