A new FAQ document published recently about the new functionality in the Windows Server 2008 R2 Hyper-V RC. Here you can find the most important things you need to know from this document.
Q: When will Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 Hyper-V RTM?
A: Server 2008 R2 will RTM in the second half of 2009. (might be October)
Q: Assuming host nodes have a virtualization capable processor from the same manufacturer,
can I migrate a VM from a host using an older processor to a host with a newer processor?
A: It is highly recommended to use identical processors on all nodes of a cluster using Quick or Live Migration.
A new functionality introduced in RC is the “Processor Compatibility Mode” option. This functionality can be enabled for VMs to allow both Live Migration and Quick Migration from newer to older processors from the same manufacturer.
Q: Are there any new tools included with Windows Server R2 Server Core to help manage the Hyper-V?
A: A new server configuration script is available in the Windows Server 2008 R2 Hyper-V RC. Type sconfig at the command line to start the server configuration utility.
Q: Can I upgrade my existing Windows Server 2008 Hyper-V host to Windows Server 2008 R2 Hyper-V RC?
A: Yes. Upgrade of Hyper-V installations from WS2008 Hyper-V to WS2008 R2 Hyper-V RC is supported. You can perform an in-place upgrade of your machine from Windows Server 2008 to Windows Server 2008 R2 and still have the Hyper-V role enabled on the system.
Q: I have a number of virtual machines that I created using Windows Server 2008 Hyper-V. Can I move these virtual machines to Windows Server 2008 R2 Hyper-V RC?
A: The following methods will be supported:
1. In-place upgrade of the host from WS2008 Hyper-V to WS2008 R2 Hyper-V RC.
2. Exporting a VM from a machine running WS2008 Hyper-V and importing to a machine running WS2008 R2 Hyper-V RC.
3. Backing up a VM from WS2008 Hyper-V and restoring it on WS2008 R2 Hyper-V RC
Do not forget to update the guest integration services to the latest R2 version to access the optimal performance of the drivers.
Enjoy!