WebProNews

In recent years, Apache Web server plus Linux equaled another Internet space Microsoft couldn't really wedge itself into. The success of the software as a service meme has driven the software giant to beef up its Longhorn Server's ability to handle hosted applications.

When (if) the Longhorn Server makes its debut in the second half of 2007, it will be include enhancements to its database software, development tools, and run-time environment, all of which should make it better for running Web applications.

The directive to improve Web app capabilities stems from CTO Ray Ozzie, says InformationWeek. The new and improved server will include improved Internet Information Services, which are intended to give system administrators more control of various Webpage components like dynamic HTML, PHP, and Secure Sockets Layer.

Longhorn Server and Windows Vista also will contain a new scripting language and command-line interface called PowerShell for quickly moving .Net workloads and Exchange mailboxes among groups of computers. Muglia calls PowerShell "critical to hosters."

In addition, SQL Server, Visual Studio, and .Net run-time environment will all be upgraded for improved application hosting.