Differences between Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2

Question

There are functions and APIs that are included in Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008 R2, but not in another. Where can I find a specific list of differences? Is there something that should especially be avoided if the program should be compatible with both? Naturally, the question can be generalized to any version of Windows and its corresponding server version.

Answer 1

https://serverfault.com/questions/55355/whats-the-difference-between-windows-server-2008-2008-sp2-and-2008-r2

In general, the core set of APIs for Windows 7 and Win2K8 (R2) should be nearly identical. (Vista and the original Win2k8 should be the same ...)

We sent products that ran on both platforms, and only had to conduct minimal testing on Win2k8 to ensure compatibility.

With OS SKU servers, many desktop components (such as Windows Media Player) are not installed by default. Others may not be available (Windows Media Center and some shell features). You may need to rely on the user to install the “PC function package” from the control panel → programs and functions → enable / disable Windows functions to gain access to some APIs.

In any case, the key must check, test, test ....