Prepare to move from Windows 2003 Server Now

End of Support for Windows XP attracted widespread attention due to it being the Operating System facing millions of users every day, however Microsoft’s cessation of support for Windows 2003 Server hasn’t received the same attention despite presenting greater risks to businesses once support ends. This end of support applies to both Windows 2003 and Windows 2003 R2.

According to Microsoft, Windows 2003 Server is running on over 23 million servers (both physical and virtual) operated by organisations of all sizes.

Migrations to a new server Operating System will bring complexities and businesses should be encouraged to start planning their migration to a newer Operating System now. When support comes to an end:
•    Requests for changes to product design or features will no longer be accepted nor accommodated
•    Security updates will no longer be provided, exposing your Windows Server 2003 installation to security threats
•    Payment Card Industry (PCI) policies will not be met with an operating system that is EOS
•    Hotfixes and bug fixes will no longer be provided
•    Complimentary support (phone and online) included with the licenses will no longer be provided
•    Paid support (e.g. from Microsoft Premier Support) will no longer cover Windows Server 2003 Family of Products

Microsoft will not address new vulnerabilities discovered in Windows Server 2003 after its end of life and attackers will have the advantage, because attackers will likely have more information about vulnerabilities in Windows Server 2003, placing the applications running on Windows Server 2003 at risk.

Businesses are spoilt for choice in their migration plans with the option of not only Windows Server 2012 R2, but also Microsoft Azure as well as Office 365 for SharePoint and Exchange.

Each migration from Windows 2003 should follow a four step process:

Trusted Microsoft Partners such as Carter Tech can help with this migration process.