This is been a hot topic here for a long time. Back in May I mentioned that there was going to be no AdminPak and sure enough that was confirmed. Microsoft's decision was to create a new tool called the Remote Server Administration Tools. Back in June Microsoft said it would be released with Vista SP1.
We now finally have the ability to test the Remote Server Administration Tools out by participating in the beta. Go here to get involved and PROVIDE your feedback directly to Microsoft
http://connect.microsoft.com/windows/Downloads/DownloadDetails.aspx?DownloadID=9561.
It appears the link is currently not working. Keep trying to ensure you get into the beta. I’ll update here when I confirm it works.
There will be a chat hosted by Microsoft on the 3rd of December so this would be another great time to let them know how it works:
Please join Microsoft for a live chat on Monday, December 3, 2007 at 12:00 - 1:00 pm PST and get all your questions about Remote Server Administration Tools answered:
Link: http://www.microsoft.com/communities/chats/chatrooms/beta.aspx
Password: 43322110SAT
I haven't had time yet to play with this so I would love to hear what you think of the new tools. Please leave comments and let the community know.