Windows Server 2012 End Of Life! Are you still using Windows Server 2012 or 2012 R2?

Well, Microsoft has announced that Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2 will become end-of-life as of October 10th, 2023. This means they will stop receiving important updates, such as security and bug fixes, and can put you at risk of cyber-attacks and effect compliance.

What are the consequences?

So, as of October, Windows Server 2012 will become unsupported – still running but as ‘abandonware.’ Issues will no longer be actively fixed, making the server vulnerable to bugs and leaving your data unguarded. This leaves you open to attacks that could put your business at risk.

Additionally, if anything in your Windows Server breaks you will be on your own as there will no longer be anyone to repair it. This could leave you stranded with services that don’t work.

And to that point, services will no longer be built with Windows Server 2012 or 2012 R2 in mind, meaning you may not be able to run potential new programs or devices. Again, this could leave you without essential services that your business needs.

Beyond your own business security, you may also be jeopardising any security certifications you may have, such as Cyber Essentials, as you will be unable to guarantee the minimum necessary security requirements. Of course, this could have a big impact on the business you are able to bring in.

It is important to note that it is just the 2012 server that is being retired, so more recent Windows servers are still running, so it is recommended you make the switch to one of these.

Windows Server 2012 End Of Life

What are the options?

If you are looking to follow the advice and migrate to another server, there are a few avenues to consider. As mentioned, you can move to a newer Windows Server if you wish to stay on-premises, with Windows Server 2019 or 2022 being the most up to date. In doing this now you can ensure that your systems stay up and running and receive the latest updates to stay that way.

Migrating to Microsoft Azure is also an option for anyone still running Windows Server 2012 if you wish to move to the cloud. Microsoft has announced that if you are to do this then you will receive free Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for three years after the end of support, which would otherwise come at a cost if you wanted to remain on-premises.

Another option Microsoft has put forward for staying on premises is using Azure Arc – as Windows Server 2012 reaches end-of-life, it allows you to receive automated or scheduled ESUs and installation. This also includes the security and governance capabilities in Azure.

What does the future look like?

With one of these solutions in place, there will be the opportunity for vast improvements in how your business works. Running the latest software will allow for more chances to optimise the processes within your business, using the most up to date services to keep everything moving smoothly.

With these changes to your server may also come changes to the pricing of services and your subscriptions under Microsoft NCE. It is important to understand his when planning how to move forward so there are no nasty surprises.

What can we do?

If the idea of migrating is a bit nerve-wracking, then you need not worry – at Vissensa, we can help you make the move without all the stress. You can have a chat with someone to understand how you are using your server and assess what steps would be best for you to take moving forward. This way we can optimise your business process. Once you have migrated, we are also able to help you run your server if you so wish, freeing you up to do more business focused tasks.

When is Windows Server 2012 End of Life?

Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2 will become end-of-life as of October 10th, 2023.

What is End of Life for Windows Server 2012?

End of Life means Windows Server 2012 will no longer receive critical update or support, leaving it unprotected.