Microsoft (MS) has a number of amazing technologies in the marketplace, but they are only designs without Microsoft Server Software to run them. ASP.NET, Silverlight and message-oriented middleware applications all need Microsoft server software to make them work. MS server software enables these technologies by porting the world-class Windows software environment to the Enterprise level, where it is more secure, more reliable and has greater uptime than a standard Windows desktop. Then they add additional features like email, system management and web serving. In fact, many different types of software fall under the term "Microsoft Server Software." Microsoft server software solutions include:

1. Microsoft web server software
2. Windows 2008, the business-class Microsoft server software program
3. SQL Server, which powers several different classes of the Microsoft server software solutions

Other types of Microsoft server software include Exchange (Email), Systems Management Server (SMS), Windows XP server software, Internet Information Server (IIS) and BizTalk. Given how long Microsoft has been in business and its position as a technology innovator, just about every business need is addressed by one form of Microsoft server solution. When looking to buy MS server software or looking for Microsoft server software suppliers, consider the following.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy Microsoft server software, like Windows 2008, online

Numerous suppliers offer MS server software online. When looking for Windows Server 2008, use various price listings online to find the lowest cost.

I recommend: Google provides a product service that finds different Microsoft server software suppliers and lists their prices. Buy Cheap Software offers a similar service.

Find Microsoft server software prices for Exchange and SQL Server Online

The ability to comparison shop Microsoft Server Software goes beyond just Windows Server. It is possible to find low prices on Exchange and SQL Server as well.

I recommend: Use NexTag to find different competitors' prices on Exchange Server. Wasatch Software provides the best price on SQL Server.

Comparison shop for Microsoft web server software

Some suppliers of MS server software also sell Microsoft web server software. They list their prices online, enabling the purchaser to get the best deal.

I recommend: Visit CCL's website for prices on Microsoft web server software. Then double check the prices at NCIX.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  It is almost always possible to find earlier versions of Microsoft server software (Windows 2003, SQL Server 2005) online and on sale for less than the most current versions.
• •  Sometimes, it may make sense to find suppliers of Microsoft server software who also are value-added resellers (VARs). They not only sell the software, but also help set it up.
• •  Do not forget training when buying Microsoft server software. Some of Microsoft server software solutions can be complex.