.NET Nightly 160

Well, the obvious news is the launch of the express tools and BETA 1 of Whidbey… so here are some links to read the best perspectives on the launch.

• Sam Gentile on SQL Server 2005 Express – Sam points out some of the cool features and ponders the impact of this release on MSDE/Access.
• Mike Gunderloy on the download/setup – Mike has some issues with Microsoft’s method of delivery and installation.
• Laurent Kempé designs a quick site – Laurent tries out creating a simple site with VWD2K5E. (Will that abbreviation catch on?)
• Visual Studio 2005 Developer Center – General info on the new tools.

And in other news:

• Service Oriented Architecture Resources – A new section in the .NET Architecture Center dedicated to SOA related goodies. (via Harry)
• Sun announces new SOA Effort – I think we will see more and more focus on SOA over the next couple years from both Sun and MS.

-James