When Server 2008 option is missing from driver downloads

[Guest wsxedcrfv]

When I'm looking for a hardware driver for Server 2008 R2, but I don't see Server 2008 listed as a download choice, what Windows version is most similar to 2008 R2 from a functionality or compatibility POV?

Choices usually include Windows 7 (several flavors), Vista (again, several flavors), Server 2003 (sometimes), and XP (always). And all of those usually come with a 32 or 64 bit option.

[cluberti]

Windows 7 is the same kernel and driver model, so choose Windows 7.

[kai4785]

Windows Server 2008 == Windows Vista

Windows Server 2008 R2 == Windows 7

They're basically the same core Operating Systems. One is built to be used on a Desktop, and one is built to be used on a Server. The differences are very very minimal. Like cluberti said, the drivers built for one, should work for the other.

[Guest wsxedcrfv]

Windows Server 2008 == Windows Vista

Windows Server 2008 R2 == Windows 7

They're basically the same core Operating Systems. One is built to be used on a Desktop, and one is built to be used on a Server. The differences are very very minimal. Like cluberti said, the drivers built for one, should work for the other.

Is there a Windows 7, and a Windows 7 - 64 bit version?

If so, which one is most similar to Server 2008 R2 from a driver POV?

[cluberti]

They're basically the same in any ways that would affect a driver unless you're talking about loading an unsigned kernel driver on an x64 machine.

[MrJinje]

R2 Server was only released as x64, so you want the W7 x64 drivers if possible.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_Server_2008_R2

It is the first 64-bit only operating system release from Microsoft.

Edited April 23, 2010 by MrJinje

[cluberti]

Good point - I was all caught up distinguishing between x86 and x64 Win7, without paying attention to the fact the goal is to run Win7 drivers on a 2008 R2 box .