Attention all! We are rapidly approaching a significant milestone that will impact countless organisations worldwide. As you may already know, the vulnerable Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2 will reach their end of support on October 10, 2023. It's time to bid farewell to these workhorses that have faithfully served us for many years.

Microsoft will no longer provide technical assistance, updates or security patches for these operating systems beyond the specified date. This leaves servers running Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2 vulnerable to potential security breaches, software glitches, and performance issues. To continue enjoying a secure and stable server environment, it's imperative to take action before the end date.

Risks of Staying with Windows Server 2012/2012 R2

Remaining on outdated and unsupported systems poses several risks, including:

• Security Vulnerabilities: Without regular security updates, your server becomes an easy target for cybercriminals looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. The lack of patches can lead to data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other security incidents that could severely impact your business.
• Compliance Issues: Many industries have strict regulatory requirements that demand up-to-date software for compliance purposes. Failing to meet these standards can lead to hefty fines and legal repercussions.
• Limited Functionality: As newer technologies and applications evolve, Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 may not be compatible with them, leading to compatibility issues and hindering your ability to innovate.
• Lack of Technical Support: In case of system failures or issues, Microsoft's official support team will no longer be available to assist you, leaving your IT staff to tackle problems without expert guidance.

Options & Next Steps

Now that we've established the urgency of the situation, what should you do next? Well, it's time to embrace change and consider the following options:

• Upgrade to a newer Windows Server version: The most straightforward solution is to upgrade to a supported version of Windows Server, such as Windows Server 2019 or the latest version available at the time of reading this article. Upgrading allows you to benefit from the latest features, enhanced security measures, and ongoing support.
• Move to the Cloud: Many businesses are opting to migrate their workloads to cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure or Amazon Web Services (AWS). Cloud services offer scalability, cost-effectiveness, and robust security, making them a compelling option for many organisations.
• Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESUs): Customers needing to stay on-premises can upgrade to Windows Server 2022, or purchase Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows Server 2012 – providing up to three years of security updates only. ESUs will continue for three years, renewable on an annual basis, until October 13, 2026. Customers can use Azure Arc to automatically deploy the purchased ESUs on-premises, as well as extend Azure security and governance to their environment.
  
  

The Time to Act is Now!

With the clock ticking, procrastination is not an option. Planning and executing a migration strategy can take time, especially if you have complex applications and configurations. Here are some steps to help you get started:

• Assess Your Environment: Identify all servers running Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 in your infrastructure and evaluate their roles and dependencies.
• Choose the Right Migration Path: Determine the best migration option for your organisation, considering factors like budget, workload requirements, and long-term objectives.
• Backup Your Data: Before performing any major changes, ensure you have a comprehensive backup of your data to prevent data loss during the migration process.
• Test the Migration: If possible, perform a test migration on a non-production system to iron out any potential issues and ensure a smooth transition.
• Execute the Migration: Once you've completed all necessary preparations, proceed with the actual migration process.