From design considerations and project management to the coding of applications that run on Windows Server 2008–based architectures, Microsoft provides developers the information and tools they need to develop the next generation of enterprise and Web applications.
Find the Right Resources for You
Visit the MSDN Windows Server Developer Center to take advantage of new features and to build applications that are compatible with Windows Server 2008 R2.
Getting Started
Welcome! Windows Server 2008 R2 builds on the successes and strengths of its Windows Server predecessors while delivering valuable new functionality and powerful improvements to the base operating system. New Web tools, virtualization technologies, security enhancements, and management utilities help save time, reduce costs, and provide a solid foundation for your information technology (IT) infrastructure. Here is a suggested learning path to help you quickly get up to speed.
Access the Windows Server 2008 R2 overview to kick-start your learning.
Learn about the Windows Server 2008 R2 Developer Story.
Take an in-depth look at each of the Windows Server 2008 R2 editions that have been designed to suit your business and technology needs.
Find out what you need to run Windows Server 2008 R2 in your organization.
See how Windows Server 2008 R2 interoperates with Microsoft and third-party products.
Learn how Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7 are Better Together.
Find out what the press and analysts are saying about Windows Server 2008 R2.
Access white papers and datasheets to further your knowledge.
And when you are ready, access the various technology areas for Windows Server 2008 R2 to deepen your understanding.
New to Windows Server 2008 R2?
Windows Server 2008 R2 builds on the award-winning foundation of Windows Server 2008, expanding existing technology and adding new features to enable IT professionals to increase the reliability and flexibility of their server infrastructures. New virtualization tools, Web resources, management enhancements, and exciting Windows 7 integration help save time, reduce costs, and provide a platform for a dynamic and efficiently managed data center. Powerful tools, such as Internet Information Services (IIS) version 7.5, updated Server Manager and Hyper-V platforms, and Windows PowerShell version 2.0 combine to give customers greater control, increased efficiency and the ability to react to front-line business needs faster than ever before.
Access the Windows Server 2008 R2 overview to kick-start your learning.
Learn about the Windows Server 2008 R2 Developer Story.
See how Windows Server 2008 interoperates with Microsoft and third-party products.
Learn how Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7 are Better Together.
Access white papers and datasheets to further your knowledge.
Find easy ways for your existing applications to work on the new platform and achieve the "Works with Windows Server 2008" or the "Certified for Windows Server 2008" designation.
Have some experience in Windows Server 2008 R2?
Welcome back! Whether you are evaluating an upgrade from Windows Server 2008 or extending your knowledge of Windows Server 2008 R2, you will find what you need here to start your process. Here are some suggestions to help you get underway:
View Getting Started with Windows Server 2008 R2.
Learn about what’s new in our latest release.
Access the Windows Server 2008 R2 Developer Kit.
Examine changes and updates in each of the Windows Server 2008 R2 editions.
Find out what you need to run Windows Server 2008 R2 in your organization.
See how Windows Server 2008 R2 interoperates with Microsoft and third-party products.
Learn how Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7 are Better Together.
Find out what the press and analysts are saying about Windows Server 2008 R2.
Access white papers and datasheets to further your knowledge.
Find easy ways for your existing applications to work on the new platform and achieve the "Works with Windows Server 2008” or the “Certified for Windows Server 2008" designation.
And when you are ready, access the various Windows Server 2008 R2 Developer Forums to help deepen your understanding.
Need support? Find a Web forum that addresses your questions on Windows Server 2008 R2.