The Final Countdown: Navigating the End of Windows Server 2012 Support

On 10 October 2023 Microsoft will officially stop supporting their Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2s. So, what exactly does that mean and what should you do about it?

When a server is no longer supported, it means that the manufacturer or developer of the server has ended its official maintenance and updates. This typically includes the discontinuation of technical support, security patches, bug fixes, and new feature releases for the server's software or firmware. Why are these things important? Well, there are several implications for using a server that is no longer supported. They include:

· Security vulnerabilities - Without regular security updates, the server becomes more susceptible to vulnerabilities and exploits. This puts the server and the data it stores at a higher risk of being compromised by malicious actors.

· Compatibility issues - As technology evolves, new software, applications, and hardware may not be designed to work with older server systems. Lack of support means that compatibility issues may arise, limiting the ability to integrate new technologies or utilize newer features.

· Performance and stability concerns - Without ongoing updates and bug fixes, the server's performance and stability may degrade over time. Any issues or bugs that emerge cannot be addressed through official channels, potentially leading to system instability or downtime.

· Lack of technical assistance - When a server is unsupported, the manufacturer or developer no longer provides technical support. This means that if any problems occur, there won't be official avenues for assistance or guidance, making it more challenging to resolve issues effectively.

· Compliance and regulations - Unsupported servers may no longer meet the requirements of industry standards or regulatory compliance. This can have legal and operational implications, as organizations may be required to maintain secure and up-to-date systems to meet specific guidelines.

If your server is no longer supported, it is crucial to take appropriate steps to address the situation and minimize potential risks. Here are our recommended steps:

· Assess the situation - Understand the implications of using an unsupported server. Consider the specific reasons why support has ended and evaluate the potential risks and consequences for your organization.

· Identify vulnerabilities - Conduct a thorough assessment of your server's security vulnerabilities. Look for potential risks and vulnerabilities that could be exploited due to the lack of ongoing updates and patches. This evaluation will help you understand the severity of the situation and prioritize actions accordingly. Consulting an IT provider can be incredibly helpful with assessing your vulnerabilities.

· Develop a migration plan – Create a plan for migrating your server to a supported and up-to-date system. Consider whether it is necessary to upgrade the existing hardware or move to a different server platform. Assess compatibility requirements with your existing software, applications, and infrastructure.

· Backup data - Before making any changes, ensure that all critical data stored on the unsupported server is securely backed up. This ensures that data is protected in case of any unforeseen issues during the migration process.

· Research alternatives - Explore alternative server solutions that are actively supported by the manufacturer or developer. Research and evaluate options that meet your organization's requirements in terms of performance, compatibility, compliance, security, and cost.

· Plan the migration - Develop a detailed migration plan that includes the necessary steps to transition from the unsupported server to the new solution. Consider factors such as downtime, data migration, application compatibility, and user training requirements.

· Execute the migration - Implement the migration plan according to the defined timeline and procedures. Follow best practices to ensure a smooth transition. Test the new server configuration thoroughly and verify that all critical applications and services are functioning as expected.

· Update security measures - Once the migration is complete, review and update your security measures. Implement appropriate security controls, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, regular patching, and vulnerability scanning, to protect the new server environment.

· Train users - Provide necessary training and guidance to users who will be interacting with the new server system. Familiarize them with any changes in procedures or features to ensure a seamless transition.

· Monitor and maintain - After the migration, establish a regular monitoring and maintenance routine for the new server environment. Regularly apply updates and security patches, perform backups, and conduct periodic security audits to keep the system secure and up to date.

If all that sounded like a lot… it’s because it is. But Cornerstone Technologies is here to ensure your server transition is smooth with minimal downtime. If you’re using the Windows Server 2012 or 2012R2 or any other out-of-date server, please contact us to ensure your data is secure and your organization runs efficiently. (269) 321-9442 | Contact Us Today!