In terms of data center benefits, an upgrade to Windows 2012 is actually worth the switch. With Windows server 2012 the version of IIS is also revamped. As a result of this, the information management capabilities are significantly improved.
For example, if your server is running Windows Server 2012, you can upgrade it to Windows Server 2012 R2. You can upgrade from an evaluation version of the operating system to a retail version, from an older retail version to a newer version, or, in some cases, from a volume-licensed edition of the operating system to an ordinary retail edition.
Another common query is “Is it time to retire Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2?”.
On-premise installations of Server 2012 and 2012 R2 should be retired and moved to the Cloud running Server 2019 before 2023. If you are still running Windows Server 2008 / 2008 R2 we strongly recommend you upgrade ASAP!
Why should I upgrade to Windows Server 2019?
Adopting the newer standard will give you a longer period of compatibility. Server 2019 includes the latest Graphical User Interface (GUI), keeping up with the changes in Microsoft’s desktop operating system, Windows 10. Better integration with general Cloud, Microsoft Azure, and the “Microsoft Stack”.
What is upgrade and how does upgrade work?
Upgrade means moving from your existing operating system release to a more recent release, while staying on the same hardware. For example, if your server is running Windows Server 2012, you can upgrade it to Windows Server 2012 R2.
What does the end of support mean for Windows Server 2003?
The end of support means the OS no longer receives patches against viruses, spyware and other malware that might seek to exploit the system. The US Computer Emergency Readiness Team warns that those running Windows Server 2003 risk “loss of confidentiality, integrity, and or availability of data, system resources and business assets”.
The number of web-facing computers running Windows Server 2003 has been on a gradual decline since its peak usage in 2011, but many servers are still using it. Hundreds of thousands of computers are still using the Windows Server 2003 operating system – despite it no longer being patched against hacks.
Does Windows Server 2003 pose a security risk to financial firms?
Firms without such a custom support deal in place that use Windows Server 2003 to serve sites that handle financial information could be in breach of data security standards, according to Netcraft – which carries out security testing and assessments for companies.
This of course begs the question “Does NatWest still support Microsoft Office 2003?”
Such a deal was recently struck by the US Navy, which agreed to pay at least $9m to Microsoft to provide ongoing support for Windows XP, Office 2003, Exchange 2003 and Server 2003. A spokesman for RBS said Nat. West is also covered by a custom support deal with Microsoft that began in March this year.