Today I just got an Email from Microsoft Connect saying that they will be releasing the CTP version of Windows Server code name “Centro” within a few weeks.Here is what the mail reads-

Big News! Microsoft is planning to release a Community Technology Preview (CTP) of Windows Server Code Name “Centro” in the next few weeks. We look forward to your continued participation with Windows Server “Centro” and are really excited to receive your feedback on the upcoming CTP. The team is looking for confirmation we have it right, and your feedback can and will directly impact the design of this exciting new product!

Windows Server “Centro” is built on Windows Server 2008 and provides an integrated server and management system for midsize businesses. The upcoming CTP includes many new Windows Server 2008 Beta 3 based components, as well as updates to the server applications that shipped in Windows Server “Centro” Beta 1 (updated versions of System Center Essentials 2007, Exchange Server 2007 and ISA, as well as new updates to setup, Active Directory domain join functionality and a host of other improvements). The team has done a tremendous amount of work to ensure a smooth experience for you. How are we doing and what do you think of our progress? Let us know!

To install Windows Server “Centro”, you need three physical servers and the associated network hardware. Ideally, the servers should be configured identically, although this is not a requirement. The minimum hardware requirements are as follows:

· 64-bit (x64) processor
· 60 GB hard-disk drive
· 2 GB RAM Management Server (4 GB recommended)
· 2 GB RAM Messaging Server (4 GB recommended)
· 2 GB RAM Edge Server
· DVD-ROM drive
· 1 network adapter (2 in the Edge Server