Microsoft has announced that it will launch Windows Server 2008, Visual Studio 2008 and SQL Server 2008 on 27 February 2008.

Kevin Turner, chief operating officer at Microsoft, revealed the plans today at the company's 07 Worldwide Partner Conference in Denver. 

In what Microsoft is calling the most important enterprise launch in its history, the conference will kick off a "launch wave" of hundreds of events that Microsoft will host worldwide.

"The ongoing momentum of Windows Vista and Microsoft Office software licence sales, combined with new server products due to ship next year, creates a wealth of opportunity for Microsoft partners in 2007 and 2008," said Allison Watson, corporate vice president of the Worldwide Partner Group at Microsoft.

The software giant hopes that the combined launch will form the foundation for the next generation of web-based service applications, and offer support for virtualisation and business intelligence.

Microsoft is recommending that its partners take steps to prepare themselves for the new product range prior to the release.

Partners can evaluate Windows Server 2008, SQL Server 2008 and Visual Studio 2008, as well as check out the beta of the new MCSE Upgrade exam. The firm is also offering free Windows Server 2008 clinics, courses and books. 

Microsoft said at the conference that it would be highlighting the Windows Server 2008 logo programme, which helps independent software vendors certify their applications for Windows Server 2008.

More than 60 ISV partners, including Alcatel-Lucent, Aras Software and BEA Systems, have already joined the Certified for Windows Server 2008 early access programme. 

ISV partners can either work directly with Microsoft or use the company's Windows Server 2008 tool to test and verify compatibility on their own.