Avoid $200,000 in custom Microsoft Support when Windows Server 2003 Phases Out

When:

As of July 14, 2015, Microsoft will no longer support their Windows 2003 Server. This means that patches – like the 37 critical ones issued in 2013 – will stop. There will be no further protection from physical or virtual vulnerability and no compliance with emerging mandates.

The impact on business of all sizes will be significant as they will no longer pass compliance audits. Without resolution, they will put their data at risk and potentially jeopardize client privacy.

Why:

Switching servers will be necessary to ensure continuity of business and information security. A new server solution can also offer improved performance and efficiency.

Datasmith can help assess your needs and install alternatives that include hardware, software, and cloud platforms. Microsoft’s Office 365, Microsoft Azure, and their Cloud OS Network, for example, promise to deliver applications faster and increase productivity. Their Windows Server 2012 provides new computing, storage and networking capability, as well as scalability ease.

Industry leaders such as Insight Enterprises expect that 24 million servers will be affected by this phase-out – that is, 39% of all installed Microsoft servers. They anticipate this transition to be more complex than the move from XP and recommend working with an expert who can offer system analysis, migration, and monitoring.

How:

Although Tech Net posted this blog two years ago, their advice is still sound in suggesting that users check their 2003 Server network now, particularly where third-party applications are used. The purpose is to anticipate and avoid potential performance issues during the switch-over.

According to Tech Republic, time is running out. They estimate that it will take 200 days to properly plan and execute a move. Delayed action could result in requiring custom assistance from Microsoft at the tune of $200,000 a year.