What does End of Support mean?
After October 10, 2023, any business still using Microsoft Windows Server 2012 will no longer receive critical security updates and regular patches. Since Microsoft will stop providing security updates and support, it will increase security risk and raise compliance concerns if businesses do not upgrade. We highly recommend that any business running Windows Server 2012 upgrade and make the move, as the process can take months. It is worth noting that some software applications may need to be upgraded or replaced to support the latest version of Windows Server. Therefore, the cost implications could be profound.
What happens after support ends?
No security updates, no compliance, and no tech support.
Microsoft is always alert and attentive when it comes to security updates. When a new exploit is discovered, Microsoft patches it quickly. On October 10, 2023, those security updates and support will end for Windows Server 2012. When support ends, you will no longer receive critical security updates. It will increase your risk for cyberattacks and cause noncompliance concerns.
Your network and your data will be unprotected. If your business has Cyber Essentials certification you will fail to meet compliance if you are running on an unsupported system.
Along with security risks, your business functionality will be affected. Your business relies on the server to run applications and manage data every day. If you do not upgrade, it will cause issues with performance and productivity. In addition, if we need to get support from Microsoft for any Windows Server 2012 issues, support will not be available.
What should you upgrade to?
Microsoft recommends upgrading to the latest version of Windows Server, 2019, or 2022.
What are the next steps?
While it seems like there is plenty of time to upgrade, it’s best to start planning and thinking about upgrading as soon as possible. The deadline to upgrade will be here sooner than you think. Depending on your IT environment, the upgrade process can take several months to plan. Businesses that have already migrated their line of business applications to the cloud, may wish to transition to Azure AD and 365 to eliminate the requirement for on premise servers altogether.
Talk to your FOS account manager about your options and how to get started.
Now is the time to plan your move. October 2023 seems like a lot of time, but with the right planning and coordination, it will be here before you know it. There is a lot involved with an upgrade that will take time, such as the time it takes for the IT team to design and scope the project to the coordination, implementation, and other factors involved.
As your IT company, we want to help ensure your technology runs efficiently and securely. If you need help preparing and executing your plan, please contact us and our team would be happy to help.