Sunday, February 06, 2005

Idea for Windows Server Home Edition

Rick Hallihan recently wrote about his idea for a version of Windows Server for the home, aka Windows Server Home Edition. He got lots of feedback. I think it's a great idea.

We are moving into the era of multi-computer homes, computer-savvy kids, multimedia everywhere, and even grandma using the internet. The decentralized layout of most homes still works fine if you use just one computer. But many people, including myself, like being able to move around and still be connected, but without the burden of carrying a laptop or handheld everywhere. So the ability to share settings and data around the house and around the world is becoming more and more important.

For example, if my wife needs the better computer to do work, I can still use the older system to surf the internet. Which brings up another point--what to do with old computers. With a Windows Server Home System, maybe those older Windows XP/2000 and even 98/Me systems can be hooked in and be used for something, like surfing in the kitchen or supplying streaming media to the living room. The Server could help allocate the tasks and resources. So those old systems don't have to be tossed into the recycle bin so early. (Though, it's still a good thing to recycle systems into charity organizations!)

And, hmmm, what about Mac and Linux? Maybe they could throw a contender or two in this arena.

Anyway, it sounds like Rick has got a buzz going.