Windows Server Catalog

Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 is the most advanced Windows Server operating system yet, designed to power the next generation of networks, applications, and Web services. Now is the time to download your evaluation copy and plan your system migrations.

Ready for compatible applications.

We've been working with our software vendor partners to make your solutions comply with our recommended practices for security, reliability, and availability. We've given ISVs access to free, downloadable test tools that help them prioritize application compatibility, and to ensure solutions perform in Hyper-V and 64-bit environments. Keep checking this page for information about ISV Application Readiness and Certification.

Ready for compatible hardware.

IHV and OEM partners have been designing and testing hardware to be compatible with Windows Server 2008 R2 and take advantage of key enhancements, such as reliability, networking and availability. Hardware devices and systems can already certify on Windows Server 2008 R2.

Ready to smile more.

By deploying software that has been independently tested and validated to comply with our technical bars, you can help make your IT organization more strategic and less reactive.

Gain more control over business risk when you deploy tested applications.
Increase productivity when you minimize the cost of knowledge worker downtime with enhanced compatibility, reliability, and security.
Help reduce IT costs when you alleviate user support demands on your IT staff's time and resources.

Start testing today.

Download the free test tools ISVs and certification test vendors are using to test applications against the technical bars for "Works with" and certification
Ask software vendors about their plans to prioritize application compatibility or achieve full certification. You can use the "Works with" tool to generate a results file that you can send to your ISV and ask about their plans to address specific test case failures.
Learn the difference between technical bars for "Certified for Windows Server 2008 R2" and "Works with Windows Server 2008 R2" by testing applications with the tools.