Today in his keynote address at the Microsoft® Worldwide Partner Conference 2006, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer announced the launch of Windows® Small Business Server 2003 R2 and unveiled new pricing details for the product. Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 is an advanced solution for productivity and security designed specifically to meet the needs of small-business owners, many of which do not currently have a server. It includes new features such as the “Green Check” of software health that helps customers protect their vital business data; keep networks, PCs and servers up to date; and stay connected virtually from anywhere, anytime — all leading to increased efficiency, cost savings and peace of mind.

Available for purchase starting in August, Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 Standard Edition will be available for an estimated retail price (ERP) of $599 and Premium Edition will be available for $1,299 ERP, over a 13 percent price reduction as compared with Windows Small Business Server 2003 Premium Edition. Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 will also be available pre-installed later this summer through original equipment manufacturers, including Dell Inc., Fujitsu Siemens Computers, Gateway Inc., HP and IBM, and will be available in 18 languages.