Question: Will an app like Office be able to be used by all on the server if not when?
Answer: that is not currently supported. no specifics to share today, but we're always evaluating the possibilities for future versions
Question: Are my 2 desires in planning? Meaning the bacjup when travelling.
Answer: We have heard this desire from multiple users, and we are investigating the possibility of adding this to a future release. Unfortunately, I can not share any more specifics.
Question: can more than ten computer accounts be added?
Answer: You can have ulimited Guest accounts, but only 10 client PC's can be connected and gain the benefit of atuomated backup.
Question: Can you tell us about HP X280N MediaSmart Connect? All the literature that you have out so far only talks about getting content from Windows Media (XP or Vista) - there is no reference to Windows Home Server. I'm already storing all my music and photos on my HP MediaSmart Server but will want to use the X280N to access it.
Answer: The MediaSmart Connect will absolutely stream from the MediaSmart Server
Question: When will Windows Home Server support full Zune DRM protected music?
Answer: No timeline to share today, but we've heard this request.
Question: Is there a way to share USB scanner with HP mediasmart server?
Answer: no, the USB ports are for additional storage only
Question: It would be nice to see a VPN addon to WHS in which I can have my folks or bothers home systems using the software to do auto backups to my WHS, any plans to look into that?
Answer: Microsoft has no plans to develop a VPN addin for Windows Home Server. Please go to serverplayground.com and suggest this in the Developers forum if you would like to see a developer possibly developing what you are looking for.
Question: Is the windows home server a dedicated server or can it also be used as a workstation?
Answer: it is a dedicated server, not a workstation
Question: Can you connect the HP Media Vault to the MediaSmart server and have them work together?
Answer: Both of these products are designed as servers for file sharing and client backup. In this sense, they are rarely used together. However, both servers share a number of common networking protocols, including SMB, and so it is possible to move files from one to the other.
Question: Will HP ever publicly release their ad-ons that are now exclusive to their Media Smart Server?
Answer: HP continues to strive to add value and differentiation to the HP MSS, we believe these set the HP product apart.
Question: What is a good option to add external storage to my WHS (besides USB & 1394)? Most options i find are RAID enclosures and WHS recommends not using RAID (I have WHS installed on a Dell PowerEdge Server).
Answer: You can also you external eSATA which is a fast and easy external solution if your hardware supports external eSATA.
Question: When will Vista 64bit be released?
Answer: Vista 64 bit support will be released with the upcoming Power Pack 1 Update. A beta is available now at connect.microsoft.com/WindowsHomeServer and contains Vista 64 bit support.
Question: Will there be a copy available of the Q&A after the webinar to scroll back to other questions ?
Answer: Yes. a Video and Q&A transcript will be made available at the end of the webcast.
Question: I am curious how many website can you run with whs inside IIS? is it limited to 1? and also will Oracle and MSSQL work without problems?
Answer: these are not intended or supported uses for WHS. It is intended for consumers/families
Question: will hp resolve the issue where pictures on the webshare are not in date order or order that they were uploaded
Answer: The current version of webshare allows for the photos to be re-ordered by dragging and dropping. We continue to look at ways to improve webshare and our photo handling for MediaSmart server.
Question: Is it possible to stream video directly to a hdmi device (ie. flat panel lcd) using the server or does this need to run on the workstation/client side?
Answer: No, you must stream from a client that accesses the server for the content.
Question: My MediaSmart Server is connected to my Netgear WNR3500 wireless router which is plugged in to a Comcast modem/router. Can I still access my server through both routers? What if I plug the MediaSmart into the Comcast modem/router only?
Answer: You should connect the server to the "first" router which in this case is the Comcast router. Without exploring the details of your network configuration, you may want to connect the wireless router as a "switch" by not connecting the WAN port connection. This will allow any PC or server on the network to communicate with each other
Question: how much is the HP MediaSmart server
Answer: HP has two models on their website available for purchase at the moment, one is available for $599.99 (USD) and the other is $749.99 (USD) .
Question: I'm using my WHS as VPN server, and it works like a charm. Its pretty straight forward to setup.
Answer: Thank you for your comment :)
Question: will there be a way to add more than 10 computer accounts in the future ? Can one buy more seats?
Answer: the limit is 10, with no option to buy more. WHS is intended for consumers/families
Question: The MSS has so many bugs, and very little official support on it's own MediaSmartHome.com it would be nice to see and hear more from HP.
Answer: Check out "mediasmarthome.com"
Question: You just said the USB ports are for additional storage only but I thought the HP documentation shows they can officially be used for sharing a printer also.
Answer: Printer sharing is not currently supported by WHS/MSS.
Question: Any possiblity of adding more user roles? (read only, and a create/Read role) Really do not want to have everybody with delete access for major categories like photo and video
Answer: the 3 access options are full, read only and none
Question: I have WHS on home brew hardware running on the same net as my SBS server. I have configured my router for remote access to the homeserver but I can only connect from a PC inside my network, not from the outside world. Is there something I am missing or any thoughts on where to look?
Answer: You need to go to WHS Console Settings and enable "Remote Access" including setting up a DNS provider. Successful setup of remote access on the server should allow the server to communicate to the outside
Question: I´m in the Connect home server sight but cant find the Power Pack 1 beta (RC) download ! so where is it ?
Answer: Please see the link entitled 'Test the latest beta software' This will help you join the beta program and you will then be able to download the beta release.
Question: Printer sharing is not supported but I have shared a printer as many others have and even use the IPP (internet printing) to print from work to home
Answer: Thank you for your comment :)
Question: Is a WHS connector software going to be developed for the mac?
Answer: This is a suggestion we have heard from multiple users, we are currently investigating the possibility of Mac connector, but have no specifics at this time.
Question: Would you please comment on the current advice not to use WHS Disk Management add-in due to a conflict with power pack 1 beta?
Answer: there is a conflict with PP1 and WHS DM, due to the enhancements in PP1. We're hoping DM will be updated to restore compatibility
Question: I've been strongly considering moving to DandH. This is just another good reason. :)
Answer: I'm sorry can you clarify?
Question: When backing up a Vista Ultimate laptop via wireless, it wakes up the laptop from sleep, but when finished, it doesn't put the laptop back to sleep, is this by design?
Answer: MS has announced a soon-to-be release pack called Power Pack 1 which, when available, will allow you to configure the wake-up and sleep. This will be configured as part of the Power pack 1 installation.
Question: I would like to have Microsoft add a feature that allows backup and recovery from the Home Server over the internet. I had a crash recently while away on a business trip and needed to wait until I got home to restore everything. Is there plans from Microsoft to introduce this in Version 2.0 ??? If so that would make us very happy.
Answer: Have you files a Feature Request through the beta program on this yet? If not, please do so as we are always interested in investigating new features for future releases. :)
Question: If I have two home servers is there a way to back up one to the other?
Answer: no, but with Power Pack 1, currently in beta, you can back up your home server shared files to an external drive
Question: Does the eSATA port support the Port Multiplier function (SATA-On-the-Go) ?
Answer: It does on the HP MediaSmart Server
Question: I have a Vista system with Media Center. I can't seem to select WHS as the destination for storing large recorded TV programs. Only local destinations appear in the menu.
Answer: Hi Rob - Have you checked out the Recorded TV Manager add-in for WHS? This allows you to automatically transfer your TV files from your Media Center PC to the WHS. Unfortunately, the MCE PC does not currently allow you to record to a networked drive...
Question: Can you discuss the maximum number of BAYS that the eSata Port can recognize? Most of are planning to expand our MSS past the 4 bays that come with it by adding an enclosure...can you also discuss the limits on the USB ports as it relates to # of bays...for instance, can I connect an 8 bay enclosure?
Answer: I believe the e-sata port multiplier spec. accomodates 5 connections.
Question: Does the WHS have ddns built in for remote access when your isp dynamically assigns your ip address?
Answer: Yes, the DDNS solution periodically connects to the backend service for DDNS updating your external IP address and will update that information if your external IP address changes.
Question: What addin would Terry recommend for duplicate file finder?
Answer: Try DupeCleaner....
Question: Backup wakes one of my pc's from sleep. Is there away to stop this and keep the machine in a sleep state? Stoping WOL? From the WHS control panel I mean? Or Have it put the maching back to sleep when done?
Answer: MS has announced that their soon-to-be released Power Pack 1 will address your wake-up and sleep concerns
Question: Is there any plan to allow storage to be added from another source on the network such as Microsoft Storage Server 2003 R2?
Answer: no plans in the works for this. WHS is intended for consumers/families
Question: Does the inclusion of PV connect replace the current media sharing fucntionality on the media smart server
Answer: HP will be releasing a software update which will include PacketVideo. This will be delivered as an "Add-in". You can choose to install the add-in. It does not replace WMC.
Question: As for my other question, syncing from my laptop to the server, this is something I want to do on the LAN. Is there a way to do that? Whether as they are created or changed or not. Evene if just on some schedule?
Answer: Check out this link on Philip's Churchill
Question: sad to say there is no link Try the beta Software in the https://connect.microsoft.com/WindowsHomeServer all i have is submit bug or suggestion ?
Answer: please visit this link https://connect.microsoft.com/programdetails.aspx?ProgramDetailsID=1475
Question: Will there be a mail server (mini exchange) developed for WHS that will pick up e-mail from POP3 accounts?
Answer: Check out POP3 Mail Server for WHS - should do the job for you
Question: Can WHS host a MySQL database? How about MS-SQL?
Answer: Some people have successfully done this, but it is not a supported scenario.
Question: Can WHS be used with a monitor to run Windows Media Server? That is, instead of leaving it in a closet, put it in the home entertainment area so it can do "double duty"?
Answer: No, you can not run Windows Media Center on Windows Home Server. Windows Media Center is a client application.
Question: You mention the possibility of a Mac connector, consider a linux one too!
Answer: thanks
Question: I'd like to Backup my WD My Book World Edition that shows up on my computers as mapped through Mionet. I've never been abke to add it through WHS consule Backup - it doesn't show up. Any suggestions?
Answer: You will need to "manually" backup this device by copying file manually
Question: I'm using the TZO domain hosting service that came with the MediaSmart Server. Every time I log in using IE7, I get a certificate error. How can I resolve this?
Answer: HP is working on a solution that will provide signed certificates for all TZO domains, and will be available in a future release.
Question: Uff nothings writer to deafs!!!!
Answer: We can respond to your written questions.
Question: Any plan for USB Scanner sharing support for WHS?
Answer: please submit this request on connect.microsoft.com/windowshomeserver
Question: Do you know if there are plans to unite MESH and homeserver? IT will be really cool to have your files both on mesh and on the Home Server, also if MESH goes down it would be cool to access MESH from your own server.
Answer: thanks - we're always looking at how to integrate WHS with new MS and third party solutions and services. no specific plans to share at this time.
Question: whsdisk manager is reported not to work with PP1, when will this be fixed? I have no desire to use this addin currently due to this issue.
Answer: Microsoft is currently working with the developer of the Disk Management. Please expect updates soon.
Question: A foolowup on the eSata port Multiplier....when you say 5 connections, you mean 5 hard drive bays for instance....so I could not connect an eSata Multiplier, like the Addonics one, and then connect multiple 5 bays enclosures....
Answer: Yes, that is my understanding, I use a four drive version, works well. Some 8 or 10 drive multiplier boxes have two E-sata input ports, the HP MSS only has one E-sata output.
Question: Has the "problem" with DiskManagement and the PP 1 beta been resolved?
Answer: Microsoft is currently working with the developer of Disk Management. Please expect updates soon.
Question: I have pv connect on my MS. WHen I disable media connect service, I get a network is unhealthy error in the WHS COnnector icon. How do I get rid of this. I just want pvconnect enabled and to show in my media streamers.
Answer: Please do not disable the service. You can turn it off through the console and avoid the network health error.
Question: Regarding McAfee Total Protection - can this be dumped and replaced with another server side virus protection like NOD32?
Answer: McAfee will be provided as an Add-in with the soon-to-be released HP software update. HP had worked closely wiith McAfee to ensure their AV solution works well with the MediaSmart Server. McAfee will not be automatically installed on the server; just the Add-in made available. It is customers' choice to install this add-in or not.
Question: What is the proper way to update a MSS to PP1? Update with all HP updates then install PP1? Also will HP be releasing a new DVD reinstall disc when PP1 is RTM?
Answer: It will be available as a Windows Update that will be automatically downloaded if you have automatic updates turned on your MSS.
Question: Why doesn't DiskManagement indicate the spread of files over all of the disks?
Answer: Please contact the developer of this add-in for questions specific to this add-in.
Question: Why isn't scheduled shutdown and startup of the server and workstations built in to WHS? What's microsoft got against energy conservation?
Answer: MS has released a patch for WHS to enable this feature in the OS, but has not provided any user interface to access this feature. Please submit a request directly to MS via MS Connect.
Question: Flickr has synced.....
Answer: Thank you for letting us know
Question: I have noticed the PVConnect does workwith DirectTV HR20 but media connect works. Why?
Answer: Are you trying to stream "protected content"? PVConnect cannot stream protected content at this time. If you want to stream protected content, then you need to use WMC.
Question: There seems to be a significant community concern about using Windows Home Server on home built PC's but the ability to implement drivers for WHS has been difficult. Will Microsoft offer a better way to download and implement hardware drivers?
Answer: Please work with your hardware manufacturer if you are having driver issues.
Question: I heard something regarding Disk Management and compatability issues with WHS PP1, any comments?
Answer: Microsoft is currently working with the developer of Disk Management. Please expect updates soon.
Question: how does power pak 1 work with the HP HS.
Answer: we are working on compatibility of an coordinated update and will release a new version of the HP update to correspond to the final version of Microsoft’s Power Pack 1
Question: Power Pack 1 is great indeed. Nothing but praise for it.
Answer: Thanks...great to hear
Question: any time frame for the HP paowerpak?
Answer: we are working on compatibility and will release a new version of the HP update to correspond to the final version of Microsoft’s Power Pack 1
Question: No it is no protected...it is MP3s
Answer: We would expect this to work. When HP officially releases its version of PVConnect it should work with these MP3 files.
Question: Can graphics be directly edited on the MediaServer?
Answer: You can install applications on your server, however it is not a supported scenario.
Question: Would you consider making a WHS for ISPs allowing leasing customizable virtual space for end users at a much more affordable price? for example, it could be setup so a household of 5 users can connect to their customizable WHS hosted elsewhere for $50/month?
Answer: we're always looking at different ways to deliver WHS to customers, but a key principle is WHS is an always available system in the home
Question: WIth the discussion of the eSata port and how mnay bays you can connect, is there any limits to the USB ports if I wanted to connect a 8 bay enclosure for backup purposes?
Answer: Not to my knowledge, however this would need to be verified with the enclosure vendor directly
Question: if I have installed PHP, Wordpress and MySQL and added other websites on my WHS box, will PP1 Kill all my custom sites, etc? I love the WHS box for this since it's very low power (I have the HP mediasmart) - but am scared to try to update. Had a bad experience with the WHIST add-on that did a similar thing back in it's early days
Answer: Power Pack 1 should not touch your custom configuration
Question: Every time I try to login to my server from a remote location, I get logged in and then receive the error "The remote connection timed out. connect again". Has anyone seen this?
Answer: IT departments on some corporate networks block this communication. My corporatation blocks this communication, but it works from "open" networks.
Question: HP Software Update with Mcafee is not available for download anymore... when you expect to be available back again?
Answer: Please see the information on the current slide.
Question: Will WHS be able to play back DVD's if connected to external video source?
Answer: please explain more
Question: I mean edit from a PC with the files stored on MedServ
Answer: Until Power Pack 1 is released, we do not recommend editing files directly on the server.
Question: Will this be downloaded automatically?
Answer: The HP update will be automatically downloaded within 24 hours of availability.
Question: please make the mcafee optional install
Answer: This is optional to the user. McAfee will be delivered as an Add-in cia an HP MediaSmart Server update. It is optional to the user to install the Add-in.
Question: does the Mcafee software have a cost
Answer: Hi Lee... it is a 7-month free trial at which time there will be a fee (to be determined, but similar to what you would pay for AV on a PC)
Question: Is there any thorough documenttation for the iTunes features on the HP Media Smart Server?
Answer: The HP MediaSmart Server has a “Server for iTunes” feature whereby you can automatically copy iTunes music from computers on the network to the HP MediaSmart Server to be easily shared around your home network. The Server for iTunes feature even preserves playlists from each user’s computer. The Server for iTunes feature will synchronize new music to the server as that music is added to individual computers. Music on the server can then be accessed from each individual computer’s iTunes library. Note that the MediaSmart Server does not count as one of the five playback devices in iTunes. The Server for iTunes feature is designed for sharing music across the local network only.
Question: How much is the yearly price for McAfe Protection for WHS
Answer: On the MediaSmart Server, the first 7 months will be free. McAfee has not publically announced their pricing, but it will be "consumer based pricing".
Question: Is the EX475 two 500GB drives in bay 0 and bay 1 or is it a single 1TB drive?
Answer: The EX475 has two 500GB drives
Question: For Microsoft: Why was VSS disabled in the HP MSS and why should users not enable it? (I am looking for a real explanation here, not just "because it was disabled from MS". I want to understand what is really going on here since the WHS versions for "home built" systems (and the ISO version of the PP1 beta) seem to have it enabled.
Answer: There have been some issues reported with VSS - see the Forum for more info - we're exploring resolutioin.
Question: Will you create an external enclosure that will match the MSS (esata)?? I think that would be a great addition to my MSS
Answer: HI Sean... we unfortunately can't comment on future products. As you know, there are 3rd party eSATA enclosures available today.
Question: Is the speed of the server of great importance? I've build a dual core system 2+ ghz and also have a HP Mediasmart Server. But HP seems to have more desireable features and I'm wondering if much will be lost by using a slower system. I also have 4gb versus 512mb in the HP.
Answer: As you add applications more performance becomes desirable, however since you can not edit video or run games directly from the server, increases in CPU performance are not as critical as in some desktop applications. Some people have noticed performance enhancements from RAM upgrades, however our testing shows that 512MB and the HP selected AMD CPU provides ample performance. Installing different RAM will void the HP warranty for the HP MediaSmart Server.
Question: Does Microsoft plan on offerring OneCare for use in Windows Home Server?
Answer: OneCare coordinates with Home Server as a data backup option. During installation of OneCare V2.0 the PC is checked for the Windows Home Server Connector software. OneCare V2.0 intelligently sees that Windows Home Server backups are occurring and does not change its health status to yellow or red if the OneCare backup component is not running. We expect more integration to develop between the two products in the future.
Question: Can I install the PP1 64-bit client without having to update the HP MediaSmart server itself??
Answer: No, you must have PP1 installed.
Question: I have a server up and running and building another to test add ins before I install them on the current one, will there be any support for running dual servers?
Answer: You can run dual servers, but can not have the same client joined to both servers at once.
Question: I already got the HP update, what are the issues that are being experienced and should I uninstall it?
Answer: HP is working on PP1 and MediaSmart Server update compatibility and will release a new version of the HP update to correspond to the final version of Microsoft’s Power Pack 1
Question: Will PowerPack 1 & the HP Update be available for free?
Answer: PowerPack 1 will be available on the MS Download Center and also delivered automatically via Windows Update
Question: The Connector upgrade fails on my vista media center. what should I do?
Answer: If this is with Power Pack 1, please file a bug on Microsoft Connect
Question: when will pvconnect be available for a whs that is not running hp media smart server
Answer: The packet video plug-in will be availble only on a MSS through a joint licensing agreement with PV.
Question: Are there any other dedicated forums for WHS?
Answer: Give this one a try; http://www.mediasmarthome.com
Question: For those of us who have ordered the evaluation version before purchasing, is MS considering a License Key Change option after purchase instead of Re-Installing the Server and having ro reconfigure all of the users?
Answer: You can not just change the product key to go from evaluation to non-evaluation. You must purchase new media and perform a Server Reinstallation to remove the evaluation restrictions.
Question: Can you explain how the Mediasmart Server relates to the MediaVault sever from HP? I undestand that the MediaVault server runs Linux. Noneteless it is desitned to back up Windows PC's.Will it back up servers running Windows Server os's?
Answer: The Media Vault is a nework storage device to backup PCs... it does not backup the home server
Question: If I install now PowerPack RC, will I be able to uninstall it when the RTM will be released ?
Answer: Yes
Question: Can I connect HP Upline to MediaServer?
Answer: Not directly, at this point.
Question: Is the McAfee for WHS in the HP Update a free service? or charged by McAfee?
Answer: McAfee is offering a 7 months trial for free to MediaSmart Server customers. McAfee has not announced pricing, but it will be "consumer based pricing"
Question: Where can you get one of those nice black WHS coffee mugs?
Answer: sorry, not currently. but a lot of requests...maybe in the future
Question: Can we post the HP MediaSmart publically?
Answer: If you are talking about the promo code, this code is for participants of this webcast only. Please do not share beyond this webcast.
Question: I got the HP update and the PVConnect add-in was not able to be installed. I installed it manually through remote desktop. The Console still says there is an add-in ready to be installed but I cannot see it in the add-in available or install section. I do see that it is installed from the Console. When the HP update is released again, will it fix my issue and allow it to see it properly?
Answer: Yes, the upcoming release with PP1 should fix this issue.
Question: I've noticed slow downs and temporary lockups on my client PC's after updating to the PP1 client software... is this a known issue or something on my systems?
Answer: Please file a bug and include your logs on Microsoft Connect
Question: What McAfee software are you using?
Answer: A soon-to-be-released HP software update will include a McAfee AV add-in which customers may optionally install. It will be McAfee's "server" based AV solution
Question: How long does the "Balancing storage" process last? For me, its in progress for more than a week now, and I got around 300Gb data right now, with about 200GB mirrored, and total space of 1.5 TB on my server.
Answer: that is unusual. if you aren't already, try the Power Pack 1 beta - that could resolve
Question: HP: Pleae give us the ability to uninstall the web photo album feature
Answer: You comment and recommendation is noted for future release.
Question: not much a question, but Orb works just as well, or better then webguide
Answer: Good tip, thanks!
Question: Is there any good addons to do music or dvd ripping to the whs?
Answer: check out Riptopia
Question: I have not been able to make the iTunes server on the HP work the way you describe. That is why I am asking for some documentation. Is that available?
Answer: Please visit support.hp.com for troubleshooting resources for the HP MSS
Question: HP servers utilize hard drive SMART technology, does the MSS have these capabilities to forecast hard drive failures ?
Answer: Thank you for your suggestion for future product recommendations!
Question: AS it relates to Webshare Photos, I have alot of photos on there now and alot of guests...does HP or MS plan on coming up with a way to at least back this part up? When I do a restore, it takes me forever to recreate.
Answer: With all of the backup options now available, this is a good idea that we might consider for a future release. For now, as you indicate, it is recovered on a server restore.
Question: Please repeat in this Q&A the names of the two software products that search for duplicates.
Answer: DupeCleaner and Duplication Info - check them out at http://www.wegotserved.co.uk/windows-home-server-add-ins/
Question: At least the Mediasmart should get an Update-Pack for an RAM Upgrade to 2 GB, any in sight?
Answer: Hardware was not designed for user upgrade of RAM, good idea for future.
Question: There will be an Add-in from microsft from One Care, so I can install Once Care on my server?
Answer: MS is investigating OneCare availability.
Question: When adding a HD to MSS do you need to shut the server down?
Answer: No, drives can be added while the system is running.
Question: And to HP and Microsoft - keep up the GREAT work. WHS and the HP MediaSmart Server and great examples of the creativity of both companies... and the strength of the parter relationship.
Answer: Thank you!
Question: Is anyone using WHS with the junglediskservice? If so,how is it performing?
Answer: I use it, works well
Question: For those of us beta testing PP1, will additional steps be needed to uninstall current software b4 the install of PP1 and the HPMSS updates?
Answer: Yes, we will provide guidance.
Question: Can bloggers blog a brief synopsis of this Webinar?
Answer: sure
Question: Can you share the mcafee code again?
Answer: McAfee will be made available via a soon-to-be-released HP Software update for the MediaSmart Server

There are 116 attendees at this poing but I'm logging off!!!