I just read that Microsoft is phasing out Windows Storage Server 2008 support which is the operating system on my Sentinel DX4000. Is the DX4000 capable of running a newer version? …if not, is there an upgrade path other than scraping and replacing the whole unit? I realize that some level of support will continue for a window of time, however it seems logical to be thinking about a Plan B.
The least expensive system Western Digital seems to offer with a newer operating system is $3200. Ideally, I’d like to see a less expensive option with some level of trade-up and be able to move my drives and data over without a huge loss of time. I’d hate to think that my $1500 investment is now a dead end that will end up scraped and cost me double that to replace it.
The Sentinel is a “special bird” :) The software is Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials and is an OEM Embeded product. (Why we never could get the software from Newegg for example) As such I was told it would be supported till 2023 or 2024, I forget which. Though I actually have no clue what level of support that means.
We keep pushing Microsoft for a “workgroup” product like the DX has or the Home Server was, but they do not listen. The DS series software costs about 8 times as much as the DX
But your hard drives have what a 5 year life span? It will be time to upgrade when support gives out.
