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Windows Server description
Windows Server is a powerful operating system designed by Microsoft for businesses to run their computer systems and networks. It offers a range of features like data storage, enhanced security, and centralized application management. Primarily used by small to large companies, Windows Server helps businesses organize and streamline their IT operations reliably.
Who is Windows Server best for
Windows Server is a robust operating system ideal for businesses needing reliable network management. Praised for its user-friendly interface and Active Directory integration, it simplifies user and network administration. However, some users note high licensing costs and disruptive updates. Despite these drawbacks, its wide application compatibility and strong community support make it a popular choice.
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Best fit for enterprise companies.
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Suitable for a wide range of industries.
Windows Server features
| Supported Windows Server supports Hyper-V for creating and managing virtual machines. |
| Supported Windows Server supports file sharing through the SMB protocol. |
| Supported Windows Server supports password, biometric, and two-factor authentication. |
| Supported Windows Server supports Windows Containers for isolated application execution. |
| Supported Windows Server supports group management via Active Directory. |
| Supported Windows Server supports access control based on roles and permissions using features like ACLs, RBAC, and DaC. |
| Supported Windows Server enforces password complexity and expiration through policies. |
We evaluate the sentiment that users express about non-functional aspects of the software
Value and Pricing Transparency
Ease of Use
Reliability and Performance
Ease of Implementation
Scalability
Windows Server reviews
We've summarised 95 Windows Server reviews (Windows Server G2 reviews) and summarised the main points below.
- User-friendly GUI praised for ease of management.
- Active Directory and Group Policy simplify user and network administration.
- Wide application compatibility and seamless integration with other Microsoft products.
- Comprehensive documentation and community support are readily available.
- High licensing costs are a recurring concern.
- Frequent updates can be disruptive and require downtime.
- Security vulnerabilities remain a concern, requiring constant patching.
- Complex PowerShell configurations can be challenging for beginners.
Windows Server pricing
The commentary is based on 13 reviews from Windows Server G2 reviews.
While Windows Server is praised for its robust features and user-friendly interface, some reviews indicate concerns about its licensing costs. Several users mention the price as a drawback, particularly for new users or smaller businesses, finding it relatively expensive compared to alternatives.
Users sentiment
Windows Server alternatives
Windows ServerMore scalable. A better fit for the Finance, Banking & Insurance industry. Less user-friendly and harder to implement. Rated slightly lower.Read more
Red Hat Enterprise LinuxBetter for companies moving operations online. Well-suited for the finance, automotive, and IT industries. Priced neutrally.Read more
AndroidBetter for individual consumers. More user-friendly and customizable. Wider device compatibility. Vast app ecosystem. Priced more competitively. However, it has lower reliability and performance.Read more
Amazon Linux 2Better value and pricing transparency. Optimized for AWS, making it a strong Windows Server alternative for cloud-based applications. Less intuitive interface. Limited documentation and community support.Read more
SQL Server 2019Better for data management, analysis, and business reporting. More suitable for data-driven decision-making. Has more momentum.Read more
DebianFree and open-source, offering greater flexibility and cost savings for users comfortable with Linux. A strong community provides support, but the installation can be challenging for beginners. Better for users who prefer open-source software and have technical expertise. A good Windows Server alternative.Read more
Windows Server FAQ
What is Windows Server and what does Windows Server do?
Windows Server is a server operating system developed by Microsoft, enabling businesses to manage network resources, host applications, and store data. It offers features such as Active Directory for user management, Hyper-V for virtualization, and robust security tools. It is ideal for businesses seeking a centralized platform for their IT infrastructure.
How does Windows Server integrate with other tools?
Windows Server seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft products and supports industry-standard protocols. It leverages Active Directory for user and group management and offers comprehensive PowerShell capabilities for automation and integration with various tools.
What the main competitors of Windows Server?
Top alternatives to Windows Server include Red Hat Enterprise Linux, known for its flexibility and security, and Ubuntu Server, praised for reliability and frequent updates. Debian, a free and open-source option, is also a strong competitor valued for its stability.
Is Windows Server legit?
Yes, Windows Server is a legitimate and widely used server operating system developed by Microsoft. It's known for its robust features, Active Directory and Group Policy management capabilities, and broad application compatibility. However, potential users should be aware of the licensing costs and ongoing security updates.
How much does Windows Server cost?
Windows Server pricing depends on the edition and licensing model. Contact Microsoft directly to determine precise product pricing and whether it fits your budget. Consider factors like desired features and user count when assessing value.
Is Windows Server customer service good?
Windows Server's vendor support is appreciated by users. While some find the performance occasionally lacking, requiring higher server specs, most users find it easy to deploy and manage.
Reviewed by
Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.
Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.