Extended support for Windows Server 2003 will end on July 14, 2015. This means that Microsoft will no longer offer extended support for Windows Server 2003 and will discontinue releasing future security updates, technical content updates and any non-security hotfixes after that date. If your business relies on Windows Server 2003, it will be at significant risk for security breaches, viruses and malware attacks.
In order to avoid putting your business at risk, Microsoft recommends that you migrate to Microsoft Windows Server 2012R2. There is no upgrade path from Windows Server 2003 to 2012R2. The two best options are new server hardware or an AIS Managed Cloud Service. Customers migrating to a modern solution will benefit from enhanced security, many migration paths, higher user productivity, and lower total cost of ownership through improved management capabilities. Some older 3rd third party applications such as older versions of ACT!, QuickBooks, or any other outdated line of business (LOB) software that run on these servers may also need to be upgraded as well in order to install on the latest Windows operating system (OS). It is suggested that the software vendor be contacted directly in order to confirm whether it needs to be upgraded to run on the latest version of Windows Server. Public facing servers, such as Terminal Servers, Exchange servers, and web servers, are at greater risk and should be migrated immediately.
A migration is an important step for your business and will take more time planning than a simple workstation upgrade. If you are unsure about the status of your current server infrastructure or would like more information about upgrading or migrating to an AIS Managed Cloud Service, an AIS representative can help. Please give our office a call at 410-585-9505 or email Contact@AInfoSys.com for assistance.
Source:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/server-cloud/products/windows-server-2003/
