If you are an IT professional running Windows Server 2012 or Windows Server 2012 R2 server, you need to be aware that support for these products will end on October 10, 2023. This means that regular security updates, non-security updates, bug fixes, technical support, and online technical content updates will no longer be provided by Microsoft.

This poses a serious risk to your business. You will be exposed to potential security breaches, compliance issues, and performance problems. Alongside several key vendors dropping support for their products as soon as this platform leaves standard support with Microsoft.

You will also miss out on the latest features and innovations that newer versions of Windows Server offer. This includes improved security, scalability, reliability, and efficiency.

Therefore, you need to act now and plan your migration strategy before it is too late. You have two real options and one really bad idea to choose from.

Embrace The Cloud and get all the benefits

Migrate to Microsoft Azure and receive free Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for three years after the end of support. You can move your applications and databases to Azure Virtual Machines and benefit from the cloud’s flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.

You can also use Azure Arc to manage your hybrid environment and receive automated/scheduled ESU updates and installation. This can simply be a lift and shift for now. Use the three years to get prepared for a newer operating system.

Upgrade your Windows Server

Upgrade to Windows Server 2022 or purchase ESUs for Windows Server 2012. If you prefer to stay on-premises, you can upgrade to the latest version of Windows Server. This will offer enhanced security, performance, and innovation. Alternatively, you can purchase ESUs for Windows Server 2012, which will provide security updates only for up to three years after the end of support. This can only be done if you are on an Enterprise Agreement with Microsoft. For most businesses, this won’t be an option.

Or….

…and you’d be really stupid to do this!

Do nothing and wait to join over 50% of UK-based businesses that suffer a major cyber incident each year. With an unsupported product, it will only be a matter of weeks before a major attack is launched by a threat actor against an operating system using unpatched vulnerabilities.

Whichever option you choose, you need to start preparing now and avoid the risks of running unsupported software.

Don’t know which way to turn…. Then reach out to the Technical Architecture team and we will help you understand your options and support you in the drive to move away from 2012 R2.

We are an IT company based in the UK that advises thousands of businesses, IT managers and leaders on all things Tech. We can help you with your migration plan and ensure a smooth transition to the latest Windows Server solutions. Contact us today and let us help you secure your future.