Summary

  • Article

Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 offer the following features to help remote users feel like they’re working in the office by keeping them connected and making the most out of intermittent and low-bandwidth links:

  • DirectAccess, VPN Reconnect, and Mobile Broadband make getting connected and staying connected easy or completely automatic.

  • BranchCache and file sharing enhancements make the most out of low-bandwidth connections.

By providing a secure and flexible infrastructure, Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 provide IT professionals with the following benefits:

  • DirectAccess and VPN Reconnect increase the time mobile users are connected to the internal network, improving manageability.

  • DNSSEC allows client computers to authenticate DNS servers, and DNS servers to authenticate each other, reducing the risk of man-in-the-middle attacks.

  • Mobile Broadband simplifies configuration of wireless broadband adapters.

Finally, these benefits reduce costs for IT professionals:

  • BranchCache, URL-based QoS, and file sharing enhancements optimize bandwidth utilization.

  • Support for green IT allows users to save power while still enabling administrators to manage computers across the network.

In summary, the networking improvements in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 improve user productivity and decrease management costs, adding significant value to Microsoft’s newest client and server operating systems.