Features are software programs available in Windows Server® 2008 R2 that, though they are not directly parts of roles, can support or augment the functionality of one or more roles, or enhance the functionality of the entire server, regardless of which roles are installed. For example, the Failover Clustering feature augments the functionality of other roles, such as File Services and DHCP Server, by enabling them to join server clusters for increased redundancy and improved performance. Another feature, Telnet Client, allows you to communicate remotely with a telnet server over a network connection, functionality which enhances the communication options of the server as a whole.

Features in Windows Server 2008 R2