Introduction
Windows Server 2012 R2, reaching the end of its support cycle in early October 2023. In this post, we will highlight what can happen when an operating system reaches the end of its support cycle and why it’s crucial for businesses to understand the potential consequences of this. We will shed light on the challenges and risks associated with continuing to use an unsupported server version and why it’s essential to take action to protect your corporate data, security, and compliance with regulations and standards..
Table of Contents
Why is it important to upgrade your Windows Server 2012 version?
The fact that Windows Server 2012 R2 will no longer receive security updates from Microsoft after October poses a significant security risk. Security updates are critical to safeguarding servers against new and ongoing threats. When an operating system no longer receives security updates, it becomes more vulnerable to attacks and exploitations.
Using an unsupported server version can lead to serious consequences. Firstly, without security updates, the server can become an attractive target for cyberattacks. Malware and attacks can exploit known vulnerabilities that will no longer be patched, potentially resulting in data breaches, the loss of sensitive information, and disruptions to your business.
Furthermore, there are numerous industry regulations today that require companies and organizations to have up-to-date and secure IT systems. Failing to maintain updated and secure IT systems can also erode trust among customers and partners.
Solutions to manage the situation.
The two main options for managing the situation when Windows Server 2012 R2 reaches the end of its support cycle are:
1. Upgrading to a newer version of Windows Server:
- One of the most reliable solutions is to upgrade to a newer version of Windows Server, such as Windows Server 2019. Here are some advantages of this approach:
- Improved Security: The later versions of Windows Server come with advanced security features to help protect against the latest threats and vulnerabilities.
- Enhanced Performance: Newer versions offer better performance and efficiency, which can increase productivity and enable faster data processing.
- New Features and Opportunities: Upgrading provides access to new features and enhancements that can make the business more efficient and competitive.
2. Migration to Azure:
- Another powerful option is to consider migrating to Microsoft’s cloud service, Azure. There are several reasons why this can be an advantageous solution:
- Benefits of Cloud Services: Azure offers scalability, flexibility, and availability, which can be particularly useful for businesses needing to adapt to changing demands.
- Cost-Efficiency: Cloud services can reduce the costs associated with managing physical servers and data centers since you only pay for what you use.
- Security and Compliance: Azure provides advanced security features and compliance tools to help protect data and ensure that the company complies with regulations and standards
What you need to do now:
1.Assess Your Current Situation: Start with a thorough review of your existing IT infrastructure. Identify all servers running Windows Server 2012 R2 and map out their functions and dependencies. This will give you a clear picture of what needs to be upgraded or migrated.
2.Prioritize Critical Systems: Not all servers are equally critical to your business. Identify the servers handling the most critical functions and data, and prioritize them for upgrade or migration. This ensures that your most essential operations are not negatively impacted.
3.Upgrade Plan: If you choose to upgrade to a newer version of Windows Server, create a detailed upgrade plan. This should include timelines, resource allocation, and a strategy for testing and verifying that everything works as expected after the upgrade.
4.Migration Strategy: If you are considering migrating to Azure or another cloud service, begin by developing a migration strategy. This includes determining which data and applications should be migrated first, planning for data transfer, and ensuring necessary security measures are in place.
5.Security Measures: Whether you are upgrading or migrating, ensure you implement robust security measures. This includes using the latest security features and following best practices to protect your server environment.”
Our Expertise and How We Can Help You!
At Agdiwo, we have a track record of numerous successful projects, including migrations and upgrades to more modern and secure platforms. We are here to offer our expertise and experience to create tailored solutions just for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance getting started!
