One week prior to Windows Server 2008 being officially released, one webhost located in Florida - Applied Innovations - already announced offering it for its dedicated server plans. This is possible due to a partnership that the webhost signed with Microsoft which allows it to offer trials of Windows Server 2008 and IIS7 which can later be upgraded to the RTM version. The early availability allows developers to test their applications on the new server operating system, get familiar with the new IIS7 HTTP server and therefore be prepared to make the switch as soon as Microsoft releases the operating system officially, next Friday.

Microsoft already upgraded most of its own servers from Windows Server 2005 to Windows Server 2008 since a few weeks ago, starting with the MSDN.com website and of course, Microsoft.com.

The pricing of the new server operating system was yet to be announced by Microsoft. The cost of a dedicated server at Applied Innovations - the Microsoft Gold Certified webhost - starts at $99 per month.

If you are a webhosting provider and would like to offer Windows Server 2008, there is a free event called Hosting with Microsoft Windows Server 2008 that runs in a great number of cities worldwide, from November 2007 to March 2008. The event is not only dedicated to webhost owners, but to system architects, managers and other IT professionals as well. You can register and reserve your seat at Microsoft.com.