Windows Server 2012 will reach its end-of-life (EOL) on October 10, 2023 which means extended support will end. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or support for this operating system. To ensure the security and stability of your server infrastructure, we recommend the following steps:

Upgrade to a Supported Version: The most straightforward option is to upgrade to a newer version of Windows Server that is still supported by Microsoft. Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2019, and Windows Server 2022 are the options for current supported versions. We recommend planning and executing your migration carefully, as this may involve hardware considerations and application compatibility testing.

Consider Cloud Migration: Consider migrating your workloads to a cloud-based infrastructure. Services like Microsoft Azure offer Windows Server virtual machines with extended support, providing additional time for you to plan a long-term solution.

Implement Strong Security Measures: In case your business can’t upgrade before the EOL date, you should implement robust security measures to mitigate the risks associated with running an EOL operating system. This includes:

• Isolating the server: Limit network access to the server, only allowing essential traffic
• Using firewalls and intrusion detection/prevention systems
• Regularly monitoring for suspicious activity
• Applying third-party security solutions, if available
• Application Compatibility Testing: Ensure that all your applications and services are compatible with the new version of Windows Server or the cloud platform you plan to migrate to. Some applications may require updates or modifications to work on a newer OS

Back Up All Data: Before any migration or upgrade, ensure that you have a comprehensive backup of all your data. This will help you recover in case of any unexpected issues during the process.

Plan for Downtime: If you’re migrating to a new server or platform, plan for downtime during the migration. Communicate this downtime to your users and stakeholders in advance.

Budgeting: Ensure you have budgeted for the costs associated with upgrading or migrating, including hardware, software licences, and any professional services you may need.

Compliance: Be aware of any industry-specific compliance requirements that might affect your migration, such as HIPAA or GDPR, and ensure that you remain compliant throughout the process.

Get Professional Advice and Help: If you’re unsure about the best course of action or need assistance with the migration, get in touch with us, as we are a trusted Microsoft Solutions Partner with expertise in Windows Server migration and security.

Remember that running an unsupported operating system exposes your business to significant security risks, as vulnerabilities won’t be patched by Microsoft. Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritise the migration or upgrade process to a supported version or platform.