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Windows Home Server ‘Vail’: will this be another Microsoft cock-up?

John Obeto

WHS vailIn a shot heard around the (Windows Home Server) World, Microsoft announced that Drive Extender technology, which IMO just about the most appealing feature of WHS, would be discontinued, due to feedback. Think about it: the only reasons why WHS has seen much traction, apart from the beautiful UI – especially in the “Vail” version and the extensibility provided by add-ins, was the prospect of infinite storage.

My first thought was, “Are these guys freakin’ kiddin’ me?

It was surreal. Truly surreal. In fact, the bizarre nature of the post reminded me of the last time Microsoft made such a boneheaded move.

What, you don’t remember? I’ll tell you: does anyone remember when Microsoft declared browser development had peaked, and that they were no longer going to expend resources on developing IE further?

This move is akin to a unilateral disarmament by Microsoft in the SOHO NAS space!

All other products in this space use one form of Linux or another. Still, WHS sold fairly, and commanded a premium. However, when I poll friends and acquaintances that are storage professionals, WHS is not even mentioned.

That being the case, you would think that Microsoft would treat this product with kid gloves and do whatever is necessary to not only maintain the exalted stature of Home Server lovers, but also do more to gain the respect of storage pros.

Instead, we get stupid posts such at the above drivel by Michael Leworthy, and nothing but silence from Microsoft*.

I had been looking forward to not only Windows Home Server ‘Vail’, but also to Windows Server Aurora, with a view to dealing with smaller companies than we currently have as clients. Based on this news, I will vote with my money, and avoid them, unless this whole fiasco was created because Microsoft has something better.

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