What Is Windows Sharepoint Services 3.0?

Basic Features

Regardless of version, Sharepoint Services contains the same key functionality. Many basic organizational applications, such as calenders, notes, contacts and messaging, become available between each computer using the service, and each shares a common pool so various users stay updated with each other. As a web portal, Sharepoint also features content management tools and wiki/blog support, along with shared documents and work spaces for different users.

Sharepoint builds web pages using Microsoft's ASP.NET, a framework for building web pages. Because of this functionality, web pages and sections of web pages built in other programs may be imported into Sharepoint, as long as the page uses the ASP.NET framework.

A completely new architecture for Sharepoint Services 3.0 allows more efficient compiling and better integration with the ASP.NET architecture. More page template features are included in version 3.0 as well as master page compatibility, giving users a cohesive template for use across several web pages. Content storage, workflow and security were each improved as well.

Sharepoint Services 3.0 runs on Windows Server 2003 and 2008 editions. Installations on Windows Server 2003 require Service Pack 1 or newer updates, and all servers need a 2.5 Ghz processor and 1GB of RAM. The services will not operate correctly without the installation of Microsoft .NET Framework 3.0.

Microsoft offers a Windows Sharepoint Services 3.0 .exe installation file as a free download from the Microsoft Download Center. Depending on the update status of your server, you may need different install files. Visit the Microsoft Download Center for information on your specific system setup (see Reference 1).