Microsoft on Wednesday released BackOffice Server 2000, its software suite aimed at branch offices, corporate departments and medium-sized businesses.
The server suite includes standard editions of Windows 2000 Server, Exchange 2000 Server messaging, the SQL Server 2000 database, Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server 2000, Systems Management Server 2.0, and Microsoft Host Integration Server 2000.
Officials at the Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft said the new version of BackOffice Server would offer more deployment flexibility through its MultiServer feature, which lets IT departments set up all, or portions of, the suite on as many as three separate servers. This setup allows administrators to add or swap software components over time, according to Microsoft.
The suite also includes an Internet connection wizard that simplifies firewall configuration and connectivity permissions setup; Health Monitor 2.1, which provides automated monitoring of the suite; and Bayesian Troubleshooters for "smart" analysis of system problems and fixes.
Microsoft is selling BackOffice Server 2000, with five client access licenses (CALs), for $3,999 via retail outlets, resellers and consultants.
