Windows Server 2008 R2 has received a lot of critical acclaim since it was released to manufacturing back in August, but maybe you're still on the fence. After all, a server-OS upgrade is no small bowl of pickles. Need a little convincing?

Over at TechRepublic, the 10 Things blog lists 10 reasons to consider upgrading to Windows Server 2008 R2.

Among them: better support for the latest server hardware, improved power management, and the increasingly popular Direct Access:

Anyone who has ever had to support remote users knows what a hassle it can be, and yet today almost everyone expects to be able to work remotely. Thankfully, Microsoft has simplified the process by adopting a new remote access philosophy. In Windows Server 2008 R2, there is no longer a distinction between a local connection and a remote connection. Essentially, all connections are treated the same, and Windows handles the logistics behind the scenes. The feature that makes this possible is known as Direct Access.

The author also touts R2's Virtual Desktop Integration, Branch Cache (without a doubt one of our favorite features), and Windows Server Backup.

Any R2 features you'd add to the list? Group Policy, perhaps? On the other hand, are there any reasons you shouldn't upgrade? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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