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 Microsoft’s fundamental vision for Windows is one of total scalability – from embedded operating systems in smart devices such as thermostats
and light switches, through Windows CE on handheld PCs, and Web-enabled telephones, to the largest mission-critical server farms. Windows 2000, SQL Server™ 7.0, and the next version of Exchange will take our high-end scalability and around-the-clock availability far beyond what was thought possible just five years ago, and we expect to make even greater progress in the years ahead. A key to this is using Windows 2000 breakthrough load-balancing to provide scaling and reliability beyond that of the most expensive systems of
the past. Web sites can use Windows to easily add capacity and avoid having a single point of failure. The Windows 2000 load-balancing technology automatically redirects tasks to the server that is operating under the least load.
A core requirement of knowledge workers is access to their information wherever they are. Our IntelliMirror™ technology in Windows 2000 will help make that possible, by transparently and automatically backing up and synchronizing your data so that it is available on PCs or intelligent devices.
Your handheld computer, Web-enabled telephone, and PC will synchronize with each other wirelessly and automatically, whether you are in your office or on the road. At Microsoft, some of our employees already use Windows 2000 with a wireless network. When they walk into a meeting room, their laptop is automatically recognized and a "virtual workgroup" of everyone in the room is created. Wireless networks will transform the workplace.
Ubiquitous connectivity will also revolutionize the home, enabling consumers to leverage the power and richness of the PC on any intelligent device, thanks to fast, low-cost wireless networks that will make high-quality audio and video available in every room. For example, our Windows Media™ audio player downloads music twice as fast as previous formats, has double the storage capacity, and offers powerful anti-piracy protection. We’re also evolving the WebTV Network™ service, which today has more than 800,000 subscribers, with on-demand programming, personalized viewing, more Web-enhanced content, great games, and powerful communications for the whole family. We aim to help millions of Americans enjoy the digital lifestyle at home as well as at work with exciting offerings such as the CarPoint™ online automotive service, HomeAdvisor™ online real estate service, MoneyCentral™ personal finance service, plus the MSN™ Hotmail Web-based e-mail service, which now has more than 40 million members.
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