Windows Server 2012 facts for kids
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| Developer | Microsoft |
|---|---|
| OS family | Microsoft Windows |
| Source model | Proprietary software |
| Released to manufacturing |
September 4, 2012 |
| Latest preview | R2 6.3 (Build 9600) / October 2013 |
| Repository |
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| Kernel type | Hybrid kernel |
| License | Microsoft EULA |
| Support status | |
| Supported Released to manufacturing |
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Windows Server 2012 is a special computer program made by Microsoft. It's like the "brain" for big computers called servers. These servers help many other computers work together. Think of it as a super-powered version of Windows 8 for businesses and large networks.
This program was also known as "Windows Server 8" during its development. It was the sixth main version in the Windows Server family. It came after an older version called Windows Server 2008 R2.
Before the final version came out, Microsoft released two test versions. These were called a developer preview and a beta version. This allowed people to try it out and give feedback. The final version became available to everyone on September 4, 2012.
Windows Server 2012 brought many new features. It was designed to work well with cloud computing. This means using the internet to store and manage data. It also had an improved Hyper-V, which helps run many virtual computers on one machine. It also introduced a new way to manage IP addresses and a new file system called ReFS.
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History of Windows Server 2012
Windows Server 2012 was developed at the same time as Windows 8. It was part of the Windows Server family of operating systems. Microsoft first showed it off at a big event called the BUILD 2011 conference. This happened on September 9, 2011.
Early Test Versions
The first test version was called a developer preview. It was given to people who subscribed to a special Microsoft program called MSDN. This version had a new look, similar to the Metro design used in Windows 8. It also had a new tool called Server Manager. This tool made it easier to manage the server.
On February 16, 2012, Microsoft updated this preview. This update allowed people to use it for a longer time.
Public Test Versions
Later, two more test versions were made public.
- A beta version of Windows Server 2012 was released on February 29, 2012. This happened at the same time as the Windows 8 Consumer Preview.
- The release candidate version came out on May 31, 2012. This was released with the Windows 8 Release Preview. A release candidate is usually very close to the final product.
Official Release
The final version of Windows Server 2012 was ready on August 1, 2012. It became available for everyone to buy and use on September 4, 2012.
Not all versions of Windows Server 2012 came out at the same time. For example, Windows Server 2012 Essentials was ready on October 9, 2012. It became available to the public on November 1, 2012.
Students could also get Windows Server 2012 for free. This was through a program called DreamSpark. This program helped students learn about Microsoft software.
See also
In Spanish: Windows Server 2012 para niños
