It’s bound to happen: new operating systems get introduced, the majority of users eventually upgrade, and the software that’s been the workhorse of your IT operations is now relegated to the dustbin of technology history. The next OS on the chopping block is Microsoft Windows Server 2003. While mainstream support for Win2K3 ended five years ago, extended support is slated to be cut off on July 14, 2005.
The end of Windows Server 2003
This change isn’t without good reason, as subsequent releases of Windows Server 2008 and 2012 have made the Windows Server 2003 iteration all but obsolete. Of course, not everyone upgrades, and if you’re still running Windows Server 2003, now is the time to sit up and pay attention. You’ve got a decision to make.
If this doesn’t seem like a big deal, be warned: the end of support from Microsoft means no more upgrades and no more patches, leaving you, your business, and all of your data vulnerable to viruses, security breaches, and anything else that could compromise your electronic information. Here are a few things you’ll want to consider in preparation for the end of Windows Server 2003 support.
Upgrading May Be Your Best Option
It’s 2015, which means that Windows Server 2003 is 12 years old! While you don’t necessarily have to upgrade your software every time a new version is released, it’s a good idea to do it more than once a decade. Of course it’s understandable that you don’t want to rock the boat, so to speak, and risk having your computers not run as smoothly as they have been, but the truth is that new software offers lots of new features. You’ll probably find many of them useful as you try to stay competitive. More recent versions of software also offer better security, keeping your company and your data safe from hacks and other violations.
Upgrading your server software is not difficult, especially when you employ the help of the highly regarded managed services from Endless Technology Solutions. Yes, you’ll need to invest some time and capital into upgrading your software, but the overwhelming majority of businesses find that the resources they put into their upgrade are well worth it.
Custom Support for Windows Server 2003 is a Possibility
It’s an expensive possibility, but a possibility nonetheless. How much will it cost? Well, remember, this is individualized support from Microsoft, so you’re looking at a price in the ballpark of $200,000. Maybe spending some money to upgrade isn’t looking like such a bad option after all! It’s definitely cost prohibitive for most small businesses to get custom IT support from a tech giant, and besides, keeping your business’s proverbial feet planted firmly in the past is usually not a good strategy for staying ahead of your competition.
Help for Your IT Needs is Available
Endless Technology Solutions, based right in La Jolla, can help with all of your business’s IT consulting, computer repair, and other tech needs. Our technicians are professional and highly knowledgeable, and they will be able to help your company upgrade its server software or take care of any other IT issue, no matter how big or small. How can we help you with your Windows Server 2003 concerns or other IT needs? Give us a call at 619-400-7581, and let’s talk about how we can provide you and your business with managed IT services.
