As many of you already know, Windows has announced big changes that will be affecting (or has already affected) their 2003, 2008 and 2012 Servers. Hopefully you don’t still use Servers 2003 and 2008, but even if you use Server 2012, it’s important that you keep the following dates and information in mind. Here is a breakdown of everything you need to know, and how CATS Technology Solutions Group can make sure your transition is smooth so you are always covered.
First, if you’re unsure what the term “end of life” means in the technology world, this simply means the end of support. The user will no longer receive any security patches that help protect PC’s from harmful viruses, spyware, and any other malicious software. Sounds risky, doesn’t it?
The “end of life” for Windows 2003 Server came into effect in July of 2015. Meanwhile, the Windows 2008 Server ended mainstream support in January of 2015, and ended all remaining support, including regular security updates, just this past January. Windows 2012 Server also ended support on January 14, 2020.
Up next, that leaves Windows 2012 R2 Server. They will be ending their sales, support and monitoring, and updates in a few years. The exact date has been extended, and according to Microsoft’s newly updated product lifecycle page, it is now October 10, 2023. Although this seems like it is far enough away that you can put it on the back burner for now, it’s suggested that you start making moves sooner rather than later. We all saw how fast the “end of life” dates snuck up on us with the older servers!
With cyberattacks on the rise, running apps and data on an unsecured or unsupported version can create significant security risks. If you want to experience better performance, efficiency, and much needed security updates, then it is highly recommended to upgrade to the most current version. You have the option of purchasing extended security updates, which will buy you a little more time on your current version. You also have the option of upgrading to the newest version of Windows Server, which is 2019.
If it sounds complicated, don’t worry, CATS Technology Solutions Group and our team of certified Cybersecurity experts can help you! At CATS Technology, we suggest that you upgrade to the newest version, that way you have the newest features and security, as well as more time until you have to upgrade once again. But please, don’t get overwhelmed. Leave it in our hands, we can handle it!
