Windows Server Migration: Why you must act now

Jan Vojnovski Jan Vojnovski Solution Architect at Dicker Data
Jan Vojnovski

Windows Server EOS is Approaching

Windows Server 2008 is headed for extinction. Microsoft will end extended support for the operating system on 14 January 2020, which means no more security updates. So if your customers are still running Windows Server 2008, now is the time to start discussions about migrating to Windows Server 2016 or 2019.

A Windows Server migration is also the perfect time to talk about upgrading to HPE ProLiant Gen10 Servers that have been designed in tandem with Microsoft as the perfect match for the company’s latest operating systems.

Why the big deal?

Staying on Windows Server 2008 beyond 14 January 2020 comes with some pretty major consequences. Perhaps the most concerning will be the end of regular security updates and patches.

This will expose your customers to a wide range of data security threats and may mean they are no longer in compliance with data protection regulations. Cyberattacks could also threaten their systems, databases and applications as hackers target vulnerable Windows Server 2008 operating systems.

Beyond security, the end of extended support also means no more Microsoft assistance for a range of associated applications and tools. Your customers will also likely face increasing operational expenses, and may be left incapable of adopting next-gen software applications.

The case for migration

Fortunately, migrating to Windows Server 2016 or 2019 is a relatively easy sell. Migration to Windows 2019 is the gold standard. Your customers will get access to Windows Admin Center, which offers simpler performance monitoring and easier management of server configuration and settings tasks.

Windows Server 2019 also offers a suite of up-to-the-minute built-in security functionality including Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection, which automatically scans for security breaches and blocks suspected cyberattacks. A leaner Server Core image also makes Windows Server 2019 more efficient than ever – and that means lower hardware costs and a more productive IT department for your customers.

Windows Server 2016 is also a strong second-tier solution. Like its big brother, it boasts modern layers of security including privileged identify protection, breach resistance and secure virtualisation. It has also been optimised to take full advantage of the latest cloud applications, supports application development of cloud-native and hybrid apps, and Nano Server installations for improved efficiency.

A word on server infrastructure

Operating Windows Server 2016 or 2019 on outdated server hardware is like running a Lamborghini on cooking oil. That’s why a Windows Server migration also opens an excellent opportunity to talk to your customers about a server hardware upgrade.

HPE ProLiant Gen10 Servers have been designed with input from Microsoft to provide industry-leading defence against infrastructure attacks thanks to innovations in firmware protection, malware detection and firmware recovery built into the physical server hardware.

HPE ProLiant Gen10 Servers have also been designed as a perfect match for the new cloud-connected Windows Server operating systems. Gen10 Servers connect your customers with flexible cloud and on-premises solutions for a sophisticated hybrid approach that puts them in the driver’s seat to meet the challenges of today – and tomorrow.

For more information about how to get your digital transformation started, check out Digital transformation: What it is and why you should care.

Contact your local Dicker Data HPE team for more information; email sales@dickerdata.com.au

Contact sales@dickerdata.com.au for all your technology needs.

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