The Top 4 Windows Server 2003 x64 questions that I get asked…..

Ward here….

I get a few questions every week about the capabilities and differences of the SP1/x64 releases – thought I would take a minute and jot down the Top 4 questions that I hear the most:

Q:  If I install Window Server 2003 SP1, will I have x64 capabilities?

A:  Nope.  Service Pack One is exactly that – a service pack for the 32-Bit edtions for WS03

Q:  What features from SP1 are included in the x64 editions?

A:  All of the features and security features that are in SP1 are in the x64 editions including Windows Firewall, DCOM and RPC Lockdown, Security Configuration Wizard (SCW), Data Execute Protection, Post-Setup Security Updates, IE Enhancements, Download and Authenticode Enhancements,  Wireless Enhancements, RSOP, TCP/IP (and MANY more) are included with the x64 editions.

Q: What will NOT be available in the x64 editions?

A:  16- Bit Applications will not be supported on the x64 edition.  Keep in mind that some 32-bit programs still use 16-bit installers…..Fortunately, 64-bit Windows detects most of these installers and transparently loads a 32-bit version that ships with the operating system.

A:  Some legacy subsystems and protocols are not included, such as:

Q:  What will be the names for the different editions?