Windows Server 2008 rc2 vs Win 7 Pro

[crazy1291]

Hey everyone,

I want to host my own website, and some games servers. I would also like to use my computer to play some games every once in a while.

However, I was wonder if anyone knew what would be the better setup. I can use Windows 7 Pro 64 and install mySQL server, apache, etc, and play my games.
However I have a feeling that the game servers might run more smoothly on Windows Server. But, can I play games on windows Server? Does it support DirectX 10 etc?

I am just not sure which OS to use. I think if Windows Server has DirectX, I'll go with it, unless it is just a terrible pile of junk. (I have never used a server OS before but I know in the days of windows XP, people used win Server 03 as a replacement for XP)

Don't look at the price, I can get both for free through my school.

Thanks for your input.

Edit:
--> I search around with Google for a bit and I found that DirectX11 will be supported for Win Server 2008. I think this is what I'll do. If it doesn't work, not much is lost, just a pile of time. If anyone has any suggestions still, feel free to comment

Cheers

 

[crazy1291]

Hey everyone,

......

Edit:
--> I search around with Google for a bit and I found that DirectX11 will be supported for Win Server 2008. I think this is what I'll do. If it doesn't work, not much is lost, just a pile of time. If anyone has any suggestions still, feel free to comment

Cheers

EDIT#2 (couple days latter)
--> Windows Server 2008 R2 has dropped 32-bit compatibility. this means that I cannot play many of my steam games such as TF2, Half-Life, and L4D2 since the are 32 bit binaries.

I guess I will have to stick with windows 7 + Apache then

EDIT#3
Oops, I am an idiot. I misunderstood win Server 2008 R2 droping 32 bit support as not being able to run 32 bit apps.
Its not like that. Windows Server 2008 R2 only ships as 64-bit, but can still run 32 bit applications through WOW64

 

[windows7guy]

Hello crazy1291,

Games on windows server 2008, might work depends on the game. Check compatibility.


Microsoft does have an official Windows 7 Support Forum located here http://tinyurl.com/9fhdl5 . It is supported by product specialists as well as engineers and support teams. You may want to check the threads available there for additional assitance and support.

John M
Microsoft Windows Client Team