Microsoft’s Support of Windows and SQL Server 2008 Ending
Microsoft’s software and technology are an integral part of many modern businesses, and if you’re a business running Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2, SQL Server 2008, or SQL Server 2008 R2, it’s time to upgrade. Starting July 9, 2019, Microsoft will stop support for these server configurations. This puts your company at risk of a security breach or failing compliance regulations if you don’t upgrade your existing storage configuration. Not to worry though, Microsoft has provided a number of ways to continue using your existing infrastructure which we’re going to outline below, and if you are wondering how to gain support for your SQL Server 2008 upgrade or migration, Buchanan is here to assist. During the the transitional period, if you aren’t able or don’t want to upgrade within the next few years, Microsoft has provided solutions specifically tailored to you.
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How Does End of Support of Windows and SQL Server 2008 Impact You?
What exactly does the end of support for Windows and SQL Server 2008 formats mean? Support ending means security updates will stop, as well as troubleshooting, application support, and more. There will no longer be integrated support for new business applications or assistance with integrating new offices or users into the system in addition to the lack of security. This means that it could present systemic operational challenges for any business, large or small, and massively increase IT costs.
Support ending means no more security patches, bug fixes, and updated application support, which are a big part of Microsoft’s server support. This puts you at risk for security breaches and failing compliance regulations, which could cost your company significant revenue and fees. Additionally, if you continue to use your servers without any updates or patches, your daily quality of life will quickly degrade, alongside your ability to work smoothly and quickly.
However, all of these issues will only become a problem if you don’t choose how to move forward. Microsoft has provided a number of options for businesses that don’t want to upgrade soon, as well as options for those interested in upgrading.
Continuing Support of Windows and SQL Server 2008
If you want to continue using your existing server configuration, Microsoft offers extended security updates you can purchase for three more years. This means all the dangers mentioned above would be pushed back three years, giving you time to decide how to move forward. Buchanan handles this support for you through our Managed Server solution, and ensures that there are no threats or other potential breaches in the system during the process. This is the choice for companies that don’t have the necessary funding or ability to upgrade their infrastructure at the present time, and need a go-forward solution that minimizes risks.
This also means you will have more time to decide how you want to upgrade your server infrastructure. If you want to migrate into the cloud or simply update your hardware and software, you have more time to prepare. This a great option for businesses that want to upgrade but need a little bit of time and guidance before they make that decision.
If you would like to continue using your existing Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2, SQL Server 2008, and SQL Server 2008 R2 systems, send us a message. Our teams can help you continue using your existing configuration and help you decide how you want to move forward when that support ends in three years.
Cloud Migration
The second option Microsoft provides is Cloud Migration. If your business has been considering migrating data and workloads into the cloud, this is the perfect time. Microsoft is offering continued hosting support for Windows and SQL Server 2008 configurations in the Azure cloud by utilizing existing licenses, so you can save on Azure cloud costs. For those businesses that need time to completely transition into a cloud-based data storage platform, this is perfect.
They’re also offering complete support for those who want to upgrade to a complete cloud storage platform with modern server software on local machines. Businesses that wish to perform this data migration and upgrade their software storage networks should definitely take advantage of this opportunity, as it is a perfect excuse to finally upgrade. If you are not sure what migrating your data into the cloud might entail or you are unsure of how to handle it, Buchanan is here to help.
As a Microsoft partner, Buchanan is qualified to work with your team to ensure all of your data is moved to the Azure cloud quickly and securely. Understanding the nature of cloud computing and how it can impact your business can be confusing, so our team of experts will work with your company to explain the process and perform the transfer in a way that fits your business. Buchanan is ready to help with all your cloud data needs, whether you want to upgrade to modern server software or continue using Windows and SQL 2008 software for the time being.
Next Steps
The ending of support for Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2, SQL Server 2008, and SQL Server 2008 R2 systems does not need to be scary. You have until July 9, 2019 to make a decision, and Microsoft has provided a number of options to allow you to continue using your existing configurations to manage current workloads. Knowing your options and coming up with your own SQL Server 2008 end of life strategy is your first step. Acting sooner than later will only benefit you, but the only decision that can harm you and your business is not making one.
Whether you want to upgrade or pay for continued support, Microsoft has provided options for you. Migrating data workloads into the cloud is a great option for expanding enterprises, as it allows you to create centralized data sets and simplify data management at remote locations. If you don’t want to invest in a new server software, we can help you with continued support for your existing configuration. Whatever you decide, Buchanan is here to help.
To learn more about the ending of support for Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2, SQL Server 2008, and SQL Server 2008 R2 systems, visit Microsoft’s website. Watch their short informational video to learn more about how you can handle the ending of support for Windows and SQL Server 2008 configurations and talk to a Buchanan representative to discuss the best option for your business.
