hello, we have a small medical office. our new software requires new hardware upgrade. we need one server to supply 5 stations. should we order the server with windows 7(reliable), windows 8(glitches/patches) or wait for windows 10. i just dont want to need a hardware upgrade again(in 5 yrs) just to support new software. i want this to be my last hardware upgrade for 10 yrs. tia ed
W7 for business - but no one can guarantee 10 years with technology. W10 is a year out, and another year or two after that before it's well supported by the medical software firms/etc.
None of those are really server operating systems, but the vendor determines their requirements. Win 7 is the best-tested and stable at the moment. Nobody can guarantee 10 years in technology. If you -really- don't want to replace the hardware, then massively overbuy the hardware and build your new server in a virtual environment. However, that requires a level of expertise that you may be uncomfortable with. Alternate approach -- do they offer a hosted/software-as-a-service version? Maybe removing the server completely is a viable option.
For a server, pls go with W7 if Linux/BSD is not an option. W8 would be great for workstations/clients.
You should really go with server rated hardware and a proper Windows Server operating system: Windows 2012 R2 Server As far as client systems are concerned, stick with Windows 7, Windows 8 will not add any benefits.
If your new software suite is the inpetus for buying new hardware, you should consult with that company for recommendations and give lots of weight to their advice. No harm in pushing them to make a recommendation for something that "should last" your timeframe. Although as some have pointed out, expectation of 10 yrs is pushing it, 7 years more realistic. I.M.O.
