Posted by Eric O. Schueler, Senior V.P. of Information Technology
The Sky is Falling (again)
If you’ve been following along with my blog posts you probably remember my post about the end of life for Windows XP, Final Days of Support for Windows XP. This was huge because Windows XP was a successful product, and also because when Windows Vista launched, it was a flop. At this point, we aren’t talking about the final days of Windows XP and whether or not to replace an aging computer that is running Windows XP. We are simply making the fact that it HAS to be replaced and the discussion ends there.
Look at this as a good thing! Why? Because the newer operating systems have the support and updated security that you need to run your business and reduce risk of damaged or compromised data.
Windows Server 2003 and Windows Server 2003 R2
Fast forward a year later, and we are looking at another Microsoft operating system nearing end of life. On July 23rd, 2015 Microsoft will no longer support Windows Server 2003 and Windows Server 2003 R2. The same is true for these as it was with Windows XP. There will no longer be patches released for security fixes, so upgrading to new hardware and operating system is mandatory for the security of your network. Third party vendors will also stop supporting their software if it is installed on Server 2003. If your business needs to remain compliant with organizations like HIPAA, PCI, etc., you will not pass a compliance audit running Windows Server 2003.
Bottom line. There will be:
- No updates
- No security fixes
- No support for applications
- No compliance
Now is the time to be planning for this while there is still 9 months to go!
The big question. What should you upgrade to?
This largely depends on your organization and its needs. Maybe you can eliminate your server or downsize the size of your server hardware by moving your applications to the cloud. These questions are best answered by a qualified consultant to evaluate the best move for your technology.
I’m happy to do a free analysis of where you are today and where you should go before July. Please contact me for more information.
Posted by Eric O. Schueler, A+, MCP, MCSE, MCTS, CSSA, ACSP – Senior V.P. of Information Technology at HRCT. Eric has been in the business of providing IT and consulting for small and medium business for more than 15 years.
Hampton Roads Communication Technologies (HRCT) provides quality business telecommunications solutions, like computer and IT support and managed service agreements to companies and organizations throughout the United States, Mid-Atlantic and the Hampton Roads Virginia cities of Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Newport News and Hampton, north into Williamsburg and south into the Outer Banks of North Carolina. HRCT keeps your company connected with 24/7 emergency service.
