Finally, you can use the Home Server's Remote Access to Computers function to access the full capabilities of your PC remotely. This gives you most of the functionality of services like GoToMyPC without the monthly cost. However, there is a catch: Your home PC must be running either Windows XP Professional or Vista in order to be controlled remotely.

While normal PC browsers can access the Home Server over the Internet without any problem, I was disappointed to find that my Cingular Blackjack running Microsoft Windows Mobile 5 couldn't find it -- the mobile browser never displayed a login screen or even an error. I subsequently found out that Microsoft doesn't expect to be able to deliver mobile access in Version 1 of Home Server but is looking to add it for the next revision.

Requirements and limitations

Windows Home Server sounds on the surface to be nirvana for home networks, and it well could be -- that is, if you have the right parts and pieces in place to take advantage of all its services. Many homes with multiple PCs, some of which have been "migrated" through the family hierarchy, will be disappointed when they attempt to use all the facilities of Home Server.

The most significant issue is that the Connector application will only work on Windows XP and Vista. Those old PCs running Windows 2000, ME or 98 -- or, for that matter, Mac OS X or Linux -- may be able to browse the shared folders, but they won't be backed up and monitored. That limitation in itself may be a deal-breaker for a large number of households.