Microsoft Tests 64-Bit Windows Server 2003

Microsoft is seeking testers to evaluate a beta version of Windows Server 2003 for 64-bit extended systems. The server provides high performance for a mixed environment of 32-bit and 64-bit applications on a single system powered by processors such as Advanced Micro Device's Opteron.

An announcement on Microsoft's Web site reads, "Windows Server 2003 for 64-Bit Extended Systems is currently under development, with delivery scheduled for the second half of 2004. Pre-release versions of the operating system are available for evaluation from this Web site."

The sign up form is available on the Windows 2003 Server 64-Bit Extended Systems Beta Customer Preview Program Website.

At this time, the program is limited to an English language version, and is free of charge if shipped in the US or Canada. Localized versions will become available at a later date.

Microsoft has limited the trial to a standard period of 360 days. All program participants are entitled to upgrade to any future pre-release builds of the server.