Still running Windows Server 2003? It’s time to switch

Anyone still using Microsoft Windows Server 2003 is being urged to upgrade after Microsoft announced that they will no longer offer extended support as of July 14^th 2015. But what does this mean to current users and why should they switch?

It’s estimated that there are currently 10 million machines still running Windows Server 2003 (WS2003) at present, and users who have failed to upgrade by next July to a newer server will unfortunately find themselves in hot water.

Users who fail to update to new servers will find that they are no longer able to benefit from patches and also security updates. So any vulnerable parts of Windows Server 2003 that would usually be patched could be left open to commonplace computer viruses as well as large cyber-attacks, such as the recent Heartbleed and Shellshock attacks earlier this year.

Business owners who continue to use Windows Server 2003 after July may find that clients and customers are unwilling to work with them if they cannot guarantee a secure IT infrastructure.

A potential solution for businesses looking to mitigate the threat of the so called “end of life” of Windows Server 2003 is to migrate to Windows Server 2012 which benefits from more stringent security, better performance and on-going support.

Is your business still operating with Windows Server 2003? Have you considered what effect it will have an effect on your business? If you have concerns or need advice on how your business can upgrade to a newer version of Windows, like Windows Server 2012, please give ECL a call on 01268 575300 or visit or visit our website.