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New Name for Windows 64-bit Extended Editions

Microsoft is going with a simpler name for the versions of Windows that will support the AMD64 and Intel Extended Memory 64 Technology processors.

Up until this week, Microsoft added the phrase "for Extended 64-bit Systems" to the end of the OS name, creating such cumbersome constructions as Windows XP 64-bit for Extended 64-bit Systems. From here on out, the products will be identified as x64 editions.

The current lineup of x64 Editions includes Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, Windows Server 2003 Standard x64 Edition, Windows Server 2003 Enterprise x64 Edition and Windows Server 2003 Datacenter x64 Edition.

Microsoft has not publicly discussed the Datacenter edition before.

The name announcement came with the official release of a new pre-release build of the x64 editions available through the Corporate Preview Program. Microsoft also said pricing for the x64 editions will be the same as for comparable 32-bit editions.

The x64 editions are currently planned for delivery in the first half of 2005.

About the Author

Scott Bekker is editor in chief of Redmond Channel Partner magazine.

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