How To Prepare Now For For Windows Server 2012 R2 EOL
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What is Windows Server 2012 R2?
Windows Server 2012 R2 is a version of the Windows Server operating system developed by Microsoft. It was released in October 2013 as the successor to Windows Server 2012.
It is a powerful and versatile operating system that can be used for a wide range of tasks, from file and print services to running enterprise-level applications and services. It is also the last version of windows server that supports 32-bit hardware.
Windows Server 2012 R2 is primarily used by businesses and organizations of all sizes that need to manage and organize network resources, such as user accounts and computers, host websites and web applications, run and manage databases, and handle other enterprise-level workloads.
The Windows Server 2012 R2 includes some features like:
• Running and managing large networks
• Hosting and managing websites and web applications
• Running and managing databases
• Managing and organizing user accounts and computers
• File and print services
• Hyper-V virtualization
• Remote Desktop Services
• DirectAccess and VPN
• Backup and Recovery
• Active Directory Domain Services
• Internet Information Services (IIS)
• File and Storage Services
• BranchCache
• Work Folders
What will happen if I’m still using Windows Server 2012 R2 after the 10th Of October 2023?
If you are still using Windows Server 2012 R2 after the 10th October 2023, it will no longer be supported by Microsoft. This means that Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or technical support for the operating system.
This can leave your server and network vulnerable to security threats and vulnerabilities, as well as any compatibility issues with newer software and hardware.
Additionally, your organization will not comply with regulatory requirements such as PCI-DSS which requires to have all the systems updated and secure.
To break it down into bullet points you could face issues such as:
• Security vulnerabilities: Microsoft will no longer release security updates for out-of-date versions of Windows Server, leaving your server and network vulnerable to security threats and vulnerabilities.
• Compliance issues: Many regulatory requirements such as PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and SOX require that systems are kept up to date and secure, using an out-of-date version of Windows Server could put your organization out of compliance.
• Lack of technical support: Microsoft will no longer provide technical support for out-of-date versions of Windows Server, which can make it difficult to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.
• Compatibility issues: Out-of-date versions of Windows Server may not be compatible with newer software and hardware, which can make it difficult to run or maintain applications on the server.
• Limited functionality: Out-of-date versions of Windows Server may not include features and functionality found in newer versions, which can limit the capabilities of your network and servers.
What to do if you are still using Windows Server 2012 R2?
If you are still using Windows Server 2012 R2 you should spend some time looking at potential newer Windows Servers you can upgrade to. There are only around 9 months left to upgrade before The 10th Of October 2023, so to avoid disruption you should start considering your options now
Some Good Windows Server Options
One potential option is Windows Server 2019 and at CWCS we offer this option. It has some key benefits over Windows Server 2012 R2 including, but not limited to:
• Improved security features such as Shielded Virtual Machines and Just-in-Time Administration
• Support for newer hardware and technologies such as Storage Spaces Direct and Software-Defined Networking
• Improved scalability and performance
• Enhanced support for Hybrid Cloud scenarios
• Enhanced support for Linux workloads
At CWCS we also have the latest Windows Server 2022 available.
Comparing Windows Server 2022 to Windows Server 2019 (which is also very capable), Windows Server 2022 is more secure and can support hybrid deployments more efficiently. It has better cloud management and superior connectivity. The Windows Admin Centre features are also much more advanced.
The Next Steps
If you are unsure of the best fit for your needs, feel free to contact CWCS at sales@cwcs.co.uk or use the live chat system or submit a ticket on the CWCS website.
We will be happy to guide you through the options that fit your requirements, taking away the hassle that could otherwise prove to be quite a stressful transition period. Alternatively, feel free to visit our Windows Dedicated Servers page, for more information and options.