End of support for Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 and SQL Server 2012: What should you do?

On October 10, Microsoft will stop offering support to owners of Windows 2012/2012 R2 and SQL 2012 servers. This means that all security updates, content updates and technical support will no longer be provided. By keeping your Windows 2012/2012 R2 and SQL 2012 servers, you'll be vulnerable to security breaches and on your own regarding technical issues.

The status quo is not an option. Here are your 3 options:

1. Migrating to Microsoft Azure

By migrating and rehosting your Windows Server applications and databases on Azure virtual machines, you'll get extended security updates for Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 and SQL 2012 for an additional 3 years free of charge.

Your servers will be secure—and you'll have more time to modernize.

It is also possible to migrate and reinstall your current server content to Azure 2019 and 2022 servers. The end of support is a great opportunity for businesses to modernize and benefit from the most up-to-date features to safeguard their businesses.

2. Upgrade your on-premise servers to Windows Server 2019 or 2022

If your current servers allow it, upgrading to Windows Server 2019 or 2022 is possible. A second option would be to buy new servers based on Windows 2022.

Purchasing servers based on Windows 2022 can be a little more time-consuming and complex, as it involves setting up the new server on your network, configuring roles and applications, and migrating data. However, it enables you to start fresh and with updated security.

Windows 2022 servers can be very advantageous as they provide the latest security and application modernization features, such as :

- Advanced multi-layer protection against attacks

- Integrated hybrid functionalities with Azure Arc and richer information via Windows Admin Center

- Improved application deployment thanks to a smaller image size for faster downloading and simplified authentication

If you have a maintenance contractas well as an Enterprise agreementwith Microsoft, you also have this option open to you:

3. On-site deployment of extended security updates

Haven't had the time yet to consider the end of support for your Windows 2012/2012 R2 and SQL 2012 servers? Don't panic! You can purchase extended security updates to benefit from 3 additional years of security updates. This will give you time to think properly about the infrastructure you want to put in place.

There's no perfect solution for every company. Each situation presents different challenges, depending on the number of servers, budget, size and objectives of the company. That's why it's important to analyze your needs before taking action.