Extended support for Microsoft Windows Server 2003 ends on July 14, 2015. That means enterprises around the world are busy planning and executing migrations to Windows Server 2012.
At least that’s what they should be doing, if they’re smart. Because not migrating workloads from Server 2003 could mean security breaches, application compatibility issues, and increased support costs down the road.
There’s only one way to avoid the hassles of running a business on an unsupported server operating system: migrate to a newer server OS. For IT professionals eager to guide their enterprises toward the cloud, Windows Server 2012 – designed to provide a common architecture for the development and deployment of applications in public, private, and hybrid clouds – is a natural choice.
But don’t expect to make best use of Server 2012’s features and functionality with yesterday’s server hardware. For example, Server 2012 requires 64-bit CPUs and specific virtualization features. We know that older server hardware units simply aren’t up to the job. They lack the necessary CPUs or features that would allow full optimization of the Server 2012 platform. The result: inefficiencies, application incompatibility, and poor performance – for starters.
The PowerEdge Edge
What’s needed is a full portfolio of open standards-based servers that can host the latest cloud-based, high-performance server operating systems, such as Server 2012. Hardware like Dell’s PowerEdge servers – now in their 13th generation – are designed to make infrastructure management simple and optimize consumption of resources. And, don’t overlook better efficiency through automation.
Dell PowerEdge servers let you easily scale workloads within a specific platform or infrastructure, and voila – versatility and high-performance computing enabled! Of course, Dell servers are designed to keep the network up and running. But should downtime be unavoidable – it happens – you’ll recover quickly.
A migration to Server 2012, powered by Dell PowerEdge servers, sets up a number of other advantages on an IT leader’s priority list. For example, you can reduce costs through higher density, streamlined system management, and lower power consumption. You’ll make progress toward the twin goals of business agility and scalability.
On the storage front, rapid provisioning and faster file transfers will boost efficiency. As for management and monitoring, flexibility is the name of the game. You can even keep track from your mobile device.
You can also run your business on an unsupported server OS. Just be sure your disaster recovery plan is up to date!
Seriously, migrating to a new server OS without refreshing your dated server hardware is a missed opportunity. Take advantage of the Windows Server 2012 migration to upgrade your hardware too. It’s the smart thing to do.
With the end-of-support date for Windows Server 2003 fast approaching, there’s never been a better time-or an easier time-to plan your data center transformation. Our experts have designed this helpful tool to get you started on the right upgrade path for your unique environment, applications, and workloads.
