Current eMessage > Technical Information > November 2019

Technical Information

Don’t let end of support spook you

by MACC’s Technical Support Team

Microsoft is no longer releasing security updates for SQL Server 2008, and on January 14, 2020, support for Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2 will end as well. That means the end of regular security updates. Don’t let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected! We can help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance, and innovation.

Here at MACC, we can help get all your important files and data migrated to an updated version of SQL and Windows Server, ensuring you are not left vulnerable as Microsoft stops support and updates for your servers.

It may be time to assess your server needs. Is that old server starting to show its age? Are your processes slowing down and becoming more frustrating? We can get you updated and migrated, bringing new life to your old server environment.

What are the dangers though? Why shouldn’t you continue to use the same hardware and software you have? The pyramids in Egypt and the Great Wall of China were built to last forever. Computer hardware and software? Not so much. With considerably shorter lifecycles, most IT departments replace their workstations, servers, and phones regularly when they grow slow over time, stop receiving operating system updates, and/or fall out-of-warranty.

End-of-life software dangers

• Security vulnerabilities: With Microsoft no longer releasing security fixes, you are in more danger than ever and should update ASAP.
• Software incompatibility: New applications are optimized for the most recent systems. That means when using unsupported operating systems, you may not be able to upgrade some of these potentially unsupported applications.
• High operating costs: The potential costs for maintaining and fixing any unsupported applications could far outweigh the expense of updating your Microsoft Servers.
• Poor performance and reliability: Most likely, if you’re still using outdated apps or old versions of Windows, then you have out-of-date servers and workstations lurking around. This adds more risk, because out-of-date and out-of-warranty devices are prone to issues and downtime that could potentially be costlier than a much-needed upgrade.

Simply put, there’s no foolproof way to run end-of-life software. The potential risks typically outweigh the rewards, even if you’re tight on budget.

If you have any questions, or need assistance with updating your SQL Server or Windows Server, we’re here to help! Your MACC Technical Support team is available at 402-533-5300 or via email at macctechs@maccnet.com.