From the MS web platform site:
“The Microsoft Web Platform Installer 2.0 (Web PI) is a free tool that makes getting the latest components of the Microsoft Web Platform, including Internet Information Services (IIS), SQL Server Express, .NET Framework and Visual Web Developer easy. The Web PI also makes it easy to install and run the most popular free web applications for blogging, content management and more with the built-in Windows Web Application Gallery.”
Seems like a page out of the Google playbook where they offer the application for free and lock in the user base for future updates and changes to the technology.
The platform provides an easy way to try out various web applications including, Umbraco, WordPress, Acquia Drupal, SugarCRM, etc. Benefits for developers include: “WebsiteSpark and get no up-front cost support, training and software including full licenses of Windows Server, SQL Server and more. Additionally, drive new business through the WebsiteSpark MarketPlace by connecting with customers who are looking for help implementing solutions using the Microsoft Web Platform. “
Learn more about this platform here.
Tags: Microsoft, web development