Microsoft says that “Everybody needs Windows Home Server”. Well, maybe. The main reason anyone will even need or take advantage of the Windows Home Server (WHS) is if they have multiple PCs. That includes old machines and Laptops running XP and above. The first question I always get is of course, “what is it?” Simply put, WHS is a separate machine on your home network that can backup and restore all the other PCs in your house to one place. It allows you to share files, pictures, and music with any machine in your house or small business. However, WHS is also highly customizable and expandable with over 100 third-party add-ins and that is where the real power is. These add-ins are installed on top of WHS and really turns it into more than just another machine with your photos on it.
These are the 5 coolest add-ins or options, in my opinion, for WHS that show off its power
1. Integrated online backup. Not only can you backup your data locally, you can send that backup to an online storage location for a double dose of protection. Jungle Disk is my favorite but KeepVault is pretty cool too.
2. Remote Access and Remote Control.With a few changes to your router and a DynDNS account, you can connect to your WHS from any browser, from anywhere to access all your digital media if you need to.You can also shutdown and reboot your machines remotely with AutoExit.
3. Windows Media Center and WHS integration. Keep your music, photos, videos, recorded TV files on WHS and stream it to your Media center PC or/and Xbox.
4. Home Automation with mControl or ipsHomeControl. Control your lights, security system, XBOX, air control systems, etc. right from the WHS console and remotely.
5. Backup and Restore any computer on your network. Completely restore your client PC including your files, drivers, and settings.
WHS is not for everybody obviously. It does require some setup time and investment because WHS is only sold with new PC’s. Or if you have the time, you can download a 120 evaluation from Microsoft Connect and install it on any PC. Just make sure its not your primary machine. But the best way to get WHS and the best value is the HP MediaSmart Server line. WHS is pre-installed and configured ready to go. Just plug it in and follow the setup wizard.
I installed my WHS three months ago and it has become the center piece of my network. I haven’t installed or used every add-in listed above yet but I will soon. The one add-in I use the most and my favorite is the Jungle Disk add-in.
I hope Microsoft continues to improve the product and give it even more power. A new version of WHS (codenamed Vail) should be out next year with more hardware options and 64bit support. In the meantime, checkout Paul Thurrot’s Preview of WHS and the Microsoft WHS home page for more information.
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