With technology ever advancing, it is important for businesses to ensure they stay up to date with the latest server operating systems.
As a pioneer in server operating systems, Microsoft has been providing businesses with reliable and secure server solutions for many years and they regularly release updates to ensure their products keep up to date and secure.
As a result, two of Microsoft’s server products, Windows 2012 and 2012 R2 will soon complete their product life cycle and reach their end of support.
Understanding end of support for Windows 2012 and 2012 R2 servers
The end of support for Windows 2012 servers and 2012 R2 servers occurs when Microsoft discontinues providing regular updates, security patches and technical assistance for these operating systems.
For Adept IT Solutions clients currently operating these systems it is important to be aware that:
- Windows SQL Server 2012 extended support has already expired in July 2022
- Windows 2012 and 2012 R2 Servers will reach the end of extended support on the 10th of October 2023.
To read Microsoft’s full announcement about end of support for Windows 2012 and 2012 R2 servers click here.
Adept IT Solutions clients who still have these servers are therefore at risk and vulnerable to cyberattacks as they will no longer receive:
- security updates
- non-security updates
- bug fixes
- technical support
- application support
- online technical updates.
Implications for businesses who fail to update 2012 and 2012 R2 servers
If your company is still operating a Windows 2012 or 2012 R2 Server, you should be aware of the following implications this could have for your business:
- Security risks
Given that regular security updates will no longer be taking place, Windows 2012 and 2012 R2 servers will be more vulnerable to emerging cyber security threats. Hackers can take advantage of outdated systems more easily, meaning the sensitive data you have stored and your network infrastructure could become compromised if attacked. Should a cyber attack occur, your business could be at risk of loss of revenue and loss of reputation.
- Compliance concerns
Often industries have regulatory requirements that mandate the use of supported software versions, for example the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
If your organisation falls under these or any other compliance agency, then you will automatically become noncompliant when Windows support for 2012 and 2012 R2 servers ends. As a result, you may not meet compliance audits, face fines, legal issues, see your insurance premiums increase and be at risk of damage to your company’s reputation.
- Compatibility challenges
Outdated operating systems can limit your business’ ability to leverage the latest software advancements and technologies. As new application services are developed, they may not be compatible with Windows 2012 and 2012 R2 servers, hindering productivity and diminishing your company’s competitive edge.
What steps should businesses with 2012 and 2012 R2 servers take?
- Assess your existing system with the help of Adept IT Solutions
Adept IT Solutions clients who have been identified as having 2012 and 2012 R2 servers will receive an email linking them to this article as further information should they need to make any updates to their operating systems. If you have not received an email, you can rest assured that it is unlikely your business is affected. However, it is always worthwhile assessing your current systems to consider whether an upgrade to the latest release is needed.
- Select an appropriate new Windows server or cloud-based solution
Businesses planning to migrate away from 2012 and 2012 R2 servers should contact Adept IT Solutions to discuss upgrading to newer versions of Windows servers. Alternatively, you can take advantage of Adept IT Solutions secure data centre or explore migrating to a cloud-based solution such as Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure.
- Work with Adept IT Solutions to migrate your data
The friendly team at Adept IT Solutions can develop a comprehensive migration plan to help your business make a successful transition from a 2012 or 2012 R2 server. Our team will create a timeline, ensure all critical data is backed up, complete necessary testing and ensure the migration is completed with a robust security strategy in place.
Contact Adept IT Solutions to assist with Windows 2012 and 2012 R2 servers today
If you have received an email alert advising your business is currently operating a Windows 2012 or 2012 R2 server, please contact the Adept IT Solutions team on 1300 4 23378 (ADEPT) or email us at info@adept-it.com.au so that we can provide informed advice and create a detailed migration plan and update your systems today.
