I . T .
Cornerstone director Chris Petty on the importance of migrating urgently to the latest options if you ’ re using one of Microsoft ’ s endof-support operating systems …
Our support never ends
After five years of mainstream support and five further years of extended support , Microsoft Windows Server 2012 and Server R2 operating systems will reach the end of support on October 10 2023 .
After this date , these operating systems will no longer receive security updates , non-security updates , bug fixes , technical support or online technical content updates .
What does this mean ? After Windows Server 2012 and Server 2012 R2 reach the end of support , Microsoft won ’ t provide any new security updates . The continued use of these operating systems after October 2023 will increase your organisation ’ s exposure to security risks and impact your ability to meet compliance obligations such as Cyber Essentials .
For businesses still running Windows Server 2003 environments after this date , this could translate into application outages , compliance violations and , of course , serious security implications .
Despite experts predicting attacks to peak as the end-of-support date arrives , many organisations will continue running Server 2003 environments past the deadline .
Why are they sticking with Windows Server 2003 with the deadline looming ? In some cases , it can be as simple as a lack of awareness or education around the implications of not upgrading . If that ’ s you , please read on !
What are your options ? Option 1 : Upgrade to Windows Server 2022
Upgrading to Windows Server 2022 is an excellent choice for companies that want to continue using on-premises infrastructure while benefiting from the latest features , enhancements and security updates .
Windows Server 2022 significantly improves security , performance and hybrid capabilities , making it a worthy successor to Windows Server 2012 / R2
But you may need to change your hardware as well . Option 2 : Migrate to Microsoft Azure I talked about this in my last advice column . For companies transitioning to the cloud , migrating to Microsoft Azure is a strategic choice . Azure offers a comprehensive suite of cloud services , enabling companies to scale their infrastructure as needed , reduce costs and enhance business agility .
Businesses must act now to ensure their infrastructure remains secure and up-todate in the light of Windows Server 2012 R2 end of support . Upgrading to Windows Server 2022 or migrating to Microsoft Azure are viable options , depending on your organisation ’ s specific needs and goals .
Cornerstone Business Solutions specialises in helping businesses upgrade their infrastructure and transition to the latest Microsoft technologies , including Windows Server 2022 and Azure . Our team of experts will work with you to develop a customised migration plan that minimises downtime and ensures a smooth , secure transition .
Microsoft may be ending its support for these legacy products , but Cornerstone ’ s support to the Tees region ’ s business community for all IT needs is ongoing .
As a Teesside business , we pride ourselves in helping a wide range of local organisations , including Scott Bros . See our case study on the opposite page . If you ’ d like to discuss how we could help your organisation , give us a call today on 0845 223 2400 .
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