End-Of-Support: Migrating From Windows Server 2003 To Windows Server 2012

The Windows Server 2003 end-of-support deadline is bringing ample opportunities for Microsoft partners to migrate customers from Windows Server 2003 to Windows Server 2012.

Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2012

Support for Windows Server 2003 officially ends July 14, when Microsoft will no longer issue patches and security updates for its soon-to-be legacy server operating system. For businesses still running Windows Server 2003 environments, this could translate to application outages, HIPAA or PCI compliance violations and, of course, serious security implications.

Despite experts predicting attacks to peak as the end-of-support date arrives, a large chunk of enterprises will continue running Server 2003 environments past the deadline. So why are customers sticking with Windows Server 2003 with the deadline looming? In some cases, it can be as simple as a lack of awareness or education around the implications of not upgrading. In other cases, legacy applications tethered to Server 2003 are creating a whole other layer of complexity in migrating.

The end-of-support for Windows Server 2003 presents solution providers with a lucrative opportunity to get their customer's legacy environments upgraded to Windows Server 2012. CRN is bringing the channel wall-to-wall coverage as the support deadline approaches, providing everything from migration tips to breaking news and analysis surrounding the Windows Server 2003 refresh cycle and its impact on solution provider businesses.

NEWS

Deadline Day: Microsoft Partners Brace For Windows Server 2003 Security Fiasco

Windows Server 2003 officially reaches end of life Tuesday with millions of businesses having failed to migrate off the dated operating system, thereby leaving the door open for hackers.

Security Threats Imminent For Customers Refusing To Migrate Off Windows Server 2003

A recent study shows 30 percent of enterprises plan to stay on Server 2003 after Microsoft ends support for the operating system, but that opens them up to a bevy of security risks, experts warn.

Carbonite: Windows Server 2003 Migration Failures Could Present Huge Costs For SMBs

There could be pitfalls around migrating from Windows Server 2003. Here's how to avoid them.

Distributors Placing Big Bets On Server 2003-Related Assessments, Demand Gen

Avnet, Ingram Micro, Synnex and Tech Data all have dedicated Server 2003 practices focused on educating end users, generating leads for solution provider partners, and offering server assessments and solution designs.

Earnings Dip at Insight as Windows Server 2003 Refresh Lags

Many businesses won't leave Windows Server 2003 until a major security breach happens, said Insight Enterprises' CEO, resulting in a slight drop in the company's quarterly profits.

Microsoft Rolls Out Incentives For Server 2003 Upgrade, Cloud Adoption

With end-of-life for Windows Server 2003 less than three months away, the Redmond, Wash.-based vendor is offering solution providers a 10 percent subsidy for every Windows or SQL Server sold through Synnex.

HP Launches $1 Billion Operation Crescendo Windows Server 2003 Upgrade Offensive

Hewlett-Packard Enterprise Group Vice President Chuck Smith says the company has pulled together a wide range of robust incentives to get partners sharply focused on driving Windows Server 2003 upgrades.

ANALYSIS

Windows Server 2003 Upgrade: Solution Providers Prep For 'Last-Minute Panic' From SMBs

Solution providers are putting on the full-court press to upgrade customers over the next several weeks, as the July 14 end-of-life deadline draws near.

Windows Server 2003 Migration Nightmares: Top 5 Reported Hassles

For some Microsoft partners, migrating their customers off Windows Server 2003 is giving them a migraine as they rush to meet the July 14 cutoff date for support.

A Guide To Making Money Off Windows Server 2003 Migration Procrastinators

Here are 10 ways solution providers can turn Windows Server 2003 migrations into money-making bonanzas for their business.

CRN Test Center: 11 Windows Server 2003 Migration Pitfalls To Avoid

Here are 11 common pitfalls to watch out for when moving from Windows Server 2003 to Server 2012 and how to avoid them.

Windows Server 2003 Migration: A Window Into Other Opportunities

Solution providers say the opportunity surrounding end of support for Windows Server 2003 is not a large moneymaker in itself, but it's a conversation starter that can open new doors.

How To Migrate From Windows Server 2003 To 2012

Before you take the plunge to upgrade from Windows Server 2003 to Windows Server 2012, it's important to know what you're up against. CRN looks at what you need to do before the expiration date.

5 Security Risks Of Sticking With Windows Server 2003

Those who are sticking With Windows Server 2003 after July 14 are rolling the dice, according to security experts. Here are five risks companies will face by not migrating.

10 Keys To Upgrading Windows Server 2003

What's the Windows Server 2003 migration plan for your customers? Make sure these 10 things are on your to-do list

The 10 Most Shocking Things About Windows Server 2003 Expiration

AppZero recently released its second annual "State of Readiness for Windows Server 2003 End of Support" report, You may be surprised by what it found.