Microsoft to introduce Windows 2000 with OKC satellite feed

Journal Record, The (Oklahoma City), Feb 7, 2000 by Ray Dozier The Journal Record

Microsoft is spurring businesses to upgrade their operating systems once again with its Feb. 17 release of Windows 2000.

The software launch will begin at the IDG Windows 2000 Conference and Tradeshow in San Francisco.

Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft will magnify that with 70 simultaneous events around the country -- including Oklahoma City, from 9:30 a.m.-4:40 p.m. at the Myriad Convention Center.

More than 1,500 business owners, managers and computer professionals are expected to attend launch events in each city. Attendees at the Myriad will see a live satellite feed of Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates' speech in San Francisco, visit consumer electronics vendor booths and participate in hands-on learning labs.

There will be a Microsoft TechNet session and user-friendly workshops.

Admission to the event is free, and registration is available at the Microsoft Web site, www. microsoft.com.

An event code is necessary to register, and the Oklahoma City event code is 28332.

Registration may also be done by phone at (877) 673-8368. Space is limited and registrants will be accommodated on a first come, first serve basis.

Windows 2000 is designed for businesses only. The home user version, Millennium, will be available later this year.

The stand-alone version of Windows 2000 will cost $319. Upgrades from Windows 95 or 98 will cost $219. Upgrades from Windows NT Workstation 4.0 are $149 after a $70 rebate. Windows 2000 provides three categories of the new software that will be available Feb. 17: Windows 2000 Professional, Windows 2000 Server and Windows Advanced Server.

* Windows 2000 Professional features an operating system for desktop and notebook computing. Microsoft has improved the plug and play, interface, and power management features of Windows 98.

* Windows 2000 Server provides entry-level solutions for running more reliable and manageable file, print, Intranet, communications and infrastructure servers.

* Windows 2000 Advanced Server takes all of the features and benefits of Windows 2000 Server and adds more functionality to enhance availability and scalability of e-commerce and line-of- business applications.

Microsoft will introduce Windows Datacenter Server about 90 to 120 days after the Feb. 17 launch.