Microsoft has announced that Windows Home Server Power Pack 2 will be deployed to customers via Windows Update later today, March 24th.
The Power Pack, available today to English language users and later this month for all other versions, introduces three functionality enhancements:
- Improvements to Remote Access
- Enhanced Functionality for PCs running Windows Media Center (via Windows Media Center Connector)
- Content Streaming Support for Windows Media Center Extenders
All welcome enhancements, with Windows Media Center Connector arguably being the star of the show. Following the upgrade, Media Center will automatically add server-based content to its folder hierarchy - resulting in users no longer having to create shortcuts to media stored on a Windows Home Server.
It's another small step toward Microsoft's dream of a connected home experience, but the update arrives some 10 months after the launch of Power Pack 1. Slow going indeed.
If you're itching to get your hands on the enhanced functionality, Windows Home Server Power Pack 2 will be available only via Windows Update and will be applicable only to to Windows Home Servers with Power Pack 1 installed.
Official release notes: Microsoft.com