Although a final release of the next Windows Server, code-named "R2," won't debut until late 2005, Microsoft partners are being briefed on what's to come.

R2 is slated to be a fairly minor interim release between Windows Server 2003 SP1 and Longhorn Server, which is not expected until 2007. But the upgrade will include some new functionality along with the base service pack and security updates.

According to Microsoft Watch, R2 will not require new client-access licenses from Windows Server 2003. Microsoft is simply planning to swap in the new server offering, in order to make the transition as smooth as possible for customers.

New features guaranteed for R2, according to partners, include: Microsoft's "Trustbridge," or Active Directory Federation Services; Rights Management Server; version 2 of SharePoint Portal Services; Network File System (NFS) support; and Active Directory Application Mode (ADAM).

Microsoft Watch reports that while Redmond will hold off on integrating its Windows Storage Server technology into R2, the release will feature a storage-resource-management (SRM) component code-named "Corral." Corral enables network administrators to monitor and control data stored on their servers.

As previously reported, Microsoft has also had to cut some features from R2 to ensure an on-time release.