Windows Azure platform and SQL Server 2008 R2 feature complete CTP is available for download
November is an important month for Microsoft world! Two big events are scheduled to go - SQLPASS Summit 2009 and PDC 2009 conferences.
Another exciting news is about CTP releases of SQL Server 2008 R2 & Windows Azure platform.
SQL Server 2008 R2 news is here and to follow the earlier CTP related:
SQL Server 2008 R2 is the next generation information platform, delivering a trusted scalable platform, increased developer and IT efficiency and managed self-service BI. Several customers, such as Premier Bankcard Inc., Mediterranean Shipping Company, Caregroup and BigHammer are already taking advantage of the key benefits of R2
Also the complete feature CTP is available for MSDN & Technet (premier) subscribers. Further update from SQLPASS Summit 2009 that Microsoft will ship this R2 version during first half of year 2010 and more information about HowToBuy view there.
Next on Windows Azure news, here is the feed from Data Platform Insier & SQLAzure Database blogs that :
the SQL Azure Database October CTP (CTP 2) is available and includes the complete feature set that will be delivered at the Professional Developers Conference (PDC) on November 17th - 20th, 2009 in LA. Please see the latest SQL Azure Database blog for more details.
As you may be aware that Microsoft has announce the first CTP of Windows Azure back in PDC 2008 (October) that consisted Windows Azure, SQL Azure and .NET Services. Later there has been radical changes to shape the platform with many exciting features which stands as a one product & value of community participation.
(Source Microsoft)
As usual the PDC 2009 is an exciting event (for me too) to know more about Windows Azure platform and another exciting thing about this is (source Data Platform Insider blog) that :-
- At PDC 2009, on November 17th, 2009, a number of new features in Windows Azure will be made available for the first time. The CTP will remain open through December 31st, allowing you to experiment with the full feature platform and to give us any final feedback.
- Beginning January 2010, new customers will have to sign up for an offer to access services on the Windows Azure platform. Usage during the month of January will be at no charge, so you can see your exact usage while still enjoying free service.
- On February 1, 2010, we will begin charging customers for using the Windows Azure platform.
So 1 full month of free usage gets you the crux of the platform and productionize the features that you are working since last CTP release.
Good luck!