4 March 2009

Microsoft and over 50 partners showcased solutions for business and private users

This year’s CeBIT event, held in Hannover, Germany, saw a huge Microsoft presence, where with over 50 partners the company showcased solutions for business and private users under the motto ‘Corporate success is everybody’s business’.

A major product focus for Microsoft was Windows Azure. This upcoming operating system for Internet-based applications supports customers in developing new solutions and services that are made available to the user via Internet.

Microsoft also drew attention to the beta version of Windows 7 and its many new functions, which it describes as simplifying daily tasks while maintaining comprehensive compatibility of applications and devices.

The latest server operating system, Windows Server 2008 R2, was also on show. It is designed to allow customers to migrate virtual machines from one host to another without loss of availability. Direct Access permits home-based workers to connect securely to their work environment in the company network without needing a VPN connection, while Branch Cache lets customers reduce WAN usage between computing centre and branch offices.

On the private customer front the focus was on the integration of the individual platforms Windows, Windows Live and Windows Mobile to give a uniform experience for the end user. The user can now exchange information across all platforms using Windows Live Services, as well as access entertainment anywhere – for example, MSN Video can be enjoyed on the Web, as well as in the Windows Vista Media Center environment.

Car manufacturer Fiat demonstrated a driving simulator called eco:Drive. Based on a Fiat 500, the program is designed to help drivers use their cars in a more environmentally-friendly manner. The application was developed by Fiat for the infotainment system Blue&Me and is based on Microsoft technology. It collects consumption-relevant data on individual driving styles and lets the user analyse the data on a home PC by means of a USB stick.

More than 50 Microsoft partners were represented at the Microsoft main stand, including: Datev, Easy Software, GfK GeoMarketing, H&D Training and Consulting, KCS.net, Mamut Software, Ordat, PC-Ware, Plantronics, Qurius, Sievers-SNC and WebMaxx.

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