End of Windows Server 2003 – What Are The Real Risks?

So it is only a month until Microsoft close the coffin, sprinkle some dirt and say a prayer – rest in peace Windows Server 2003. By now I imagine over 20 IT companies have told you about the end of support, the risks of doing nothing and the apocalypse that will befall any business should their office be the home of a Windows Server 2003 at 12.01am on the 14^th August

But what are the real reasons for not ignoring the end of Windows Server 2003?

Simply is means, no support. At all. As with any Microsoft product once it hits end of life or perhaps more accurately, end of support, no further security patches, updates or bug fixes are issued and customers will be unable to get either complimentary or paid technical support related to this server operating system. This means your IT manager, outsourced IT company, hell even Mr Gates himself can’t support one of the most crucial bits of office equipment in your business. In short, new vulnerabilities discovered in Windows Server 2003 will not be addressed by Microsoft and that has serious security implications for any organisation running this OS. IT’s a hackers dream and what would a hacker take from your server?

This is a particularly bad announcement and higher risk for retailers, running Windows Server 2003. The must take particular note as Payment Card Industry (PCI) policies will not be met with an operating system that is end of support. And that means that Visa and Mastercard may no longer do business with you.

So what are the next steps and what do I need to keep my precious business assets protected?

It’s simple. You can move to the latest Windows Server 2012 R2 and take this opportunity to create a new vision for your IT services, by transforming your datacentre and moving assets to the cloud. By moving to a hybrid cloud environment with Microsoft Azure for example, you can enjoy a more agile IT infrastructure, with predictable IT costs and dynamic delivery application.

The best (and most biased) advice I could offer is give us a call on 01489 29 70 70.