With the launch right around the corner (Feb 27) we receive a lot of questions from developer about how to get ready for Windows Server 2008 (WS2K8).

Here are my top 10 resources:

  1. Just test your application thoroughly in Windows Server 2008. Free, easy and no additional resources needed.
  2. Make Your Applications Windows Server 2008 Ready! Go to: Innovate On Windows Server - Enroll   take 5 minutes to provide a few details and pledge application support for Windows Server 2008. This information will be published on http://www.windowsservercatalog.com/ready  This is the quickest way to demonstrate your application will support the platform.
  3. Upgrade guidance. Ensure that our customers have prescriptive guidance, specific to your application, to smoothly upgrade their Windows Server 2003 environment to Windows Server 2008.
  4. Take advantage of the redesigned software logo program. “Works with” Windows Server initiative to tell customers that your current applications are compatible. And to deliver the highest quality Windows Server experience, qualify your next-generation applications for the “Certified for” Windows Server logo.
  5. Save time in your development and test efforts by using our free test tools.
  6. Read the Application Compatibility Cookbook.
  7. Check out the MSDN Developer Center. First hand information and help in getting up to run smoothly on Windows Server in general and Windows Server 2008 in particular.
  8. Visit the Channel 9 Developer Meet Server show on Channel 9 for in depth interviews and screencasts.
  9. Use devreadiness.org resources. The site is dedicated to assisting the developer community develop high quality applications for new Windows Platforms.
  10. Attend one of our Application Migration labs in Redmond, WA or across the globe. Register  for a lab in your area:  http://devreadiness.org/files/5/white_papers/entry256.aspx

Did you use any of these resources? How was your experience?

 

And if you're ready? Let your Microsoft contact know. You might end up on the list of supported applications to be published at launch.