Windows Server 2008 Launch Event

It’s time for another big launch from Microsoft! This go around includes new versions of Windows Server 2008, SQL Server 2008, and Visual Studio 2008. How can you learn more about the new features and benefits available in each new release? By attending the launch event brought to you by Wasatch Software and Microsoft! IT professionals and business executives are invited to the Salt Lake City Downtown Marriott at 12:00 PM on March 12th. Each attendee will not only get a sneak peek at Windows Server 2008 and other Microsoft technologies, but will also receive an excellent lunch. Those who attend will also receive a gift bag and be entered into a drawing for prizes that include software, an external hard drive, HP printer, Utah Jazz tickets and more!

All attendees must RSVP. You can register for this exciting Windows Server 2008 lunch/launch event by clicking here! Please contact Spencer Ferguson at spencer@wasatchsoftware.com or 801-983-3671 x111 for more information. We look forward to seeing you in March!

Server Configuration

Do you need a new server, or are looking to upgrade an existing one? Wasatch Software offers an extensive line of servers for organizations of all sizes. You can choose an HP server, Acer server, or even a white box system customized to your needs. Just let us know what you'll be using the server for, or e-mail your specs to service@wasatchsoftware.com. Popular uses include domain, web, e-mail, file, and application servers. You can select a number of operating systems, including the following:

Windows Server 2003 R2 (Standard or Enterprise)
Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2 (Standard or Premium)

We look forward to providing a reliable system that meets your needs!

When is Software Assurance a Good Idea?

How can Software Assurance save you money? It is all about timing! Software Assurance (SA) is an ‘add-on’ for Microsoft licenses that gives you 2 years of upgrades to new releases (3 years with Open Value) as well as support, training, and other benefits. Here are some products that Wasatch Software suggests you purchase Software Assurance on, and some others that you may want to pass on SA with:

Buy Software Assurance!

*** Windows Server: A new release is expected within the next year. Upgrades for Windows Server do not exist, so SA is a must for technically progressive organizations.
*** Windows Vista: Though a new release may be several years out, SA on top of your Windows Vista licenses gives you the rights to use Vista Enterprise or Ultimate. Vista Enterprise is only available to Software Assurance customers.
*** Terminal Services CALs: When a Windows Server is upgraded, the CALs have to upgraded as well.

Pass on Software Assurance!

*** SQL Server: It took Microsoft around 5 years to release a replacement for SQL 2000, and SQL 2005 has only been out about a year. You do the math!
*** MS Office: New versions were just released, making it unlikely that anything new will come out anytime soon. Please note this only applies to Office for Windows. Office Mac customers will likely benefit from an SA purchase.
*** Exchange Server: Like Office, we’ve just seen a new version.

This list is in no way a rule for all organizations, but just a general guide. Many organizations may benefit greatly by purchasing Software Assurance on all of their Microsoft licenses. Cutting edge customers can certainly appreciate the support and training options that full SA coverage can provide. Other organizations, however, do not require the latest technology or may not have systems that can even run the newest versions. If this describes you, we suggest avoiding the cost of SA all together. If you are wondering if a new release is on the horizon for a product not listed, or if still aren’t sure if Software Assurance is right for you, contact us today for a free software license consultation.

P.S.- A reseller suggesting you don't buy an add-on? Did you ever think you'd see the day???

Microsoft Adjusts to Add Support for Thin-client Computing

Microsoft Corp. was once an avowed opponent of network computing, thin clients or anything else that threatened to harm Windows’ hegemony by putting the PC on a crash diet. Recently, Microsoft has been quietly making an about-face due to its increasingly popular Terminal Services software...


Read More

Your School IT Budget: Predict and Save

As a school administrator or IT professional you are often thrust into a classic paradox:

“How can I give our students the latest technology without annihilating our IT budget?”

Thankfully, you do have options. Following are a few popular choices that Wasatch Software can help you with:

1- Microsoft School Agreement: This simple program allows you pay annually for Microsoft software that can be used throughout your school or district at one low cost. What is the benefit? First and foremost is price. Savings for most software titles, including Windows Vista, Office 2007, and even Windows Server are at a savings of greater than 50% off of Academic Open License. Each license automatically includes Software Assurance, so you can upgrade to new releases. Additionally, a Microsoft School Agreement allows you to predict your future expenses, and even gives you the ability to lock your pricing for 3 years. There are some requirements to keep in mind for this program, such as a 300 point minimum (most products are worth 1 point). Also, you are required to license all of the systems in your school for most of the products that you select.

2- Lease Computer Systems, Hardware, and Software: Using the Wasatch Software lease program you can make monthly payments for all of your IT needs. Some of these items include computers, servers, routers, software, and even services performed by a consultant of your choice. Qualifying is simple and rates are extremely competitive. Once again, the predictability of paying monthly for your IT needs makes budgeting easy.

These are just a few programs that we feel can benefit your school. You may also want to ask us about the Adobe Academic TLP program, antivirus software, and other programs. Don’t hesitate to contact our experts today!

Trend Micro is HOT!!!

Wow! Trend Micro licensing has been sizzling lately. Symantec and other certainly offer solid solutions, but many of their users are switching over to Trend Micro due to recent good press, channel rewards, discounts and promotions, and other factors. Here's a run down of the hottest solutions for our top vertical markets:

1-50 systems (no servers): Trend Micro PC-cillin Internet Security
5-249 (windows servers, no mail server): Trend Micro Client/Server Security SMB
5-249 (windows and mail servers): Trend Micro Client/Server/Messaging Security SMB

Trend Micro's Antispyware SMB is now bundled into each of these solutions at no additional cost. You can also ask us about Trend Micro's options for larger customers, or those with specific security needs. Our experienced agents look forward to hearing from you soon!