 Once again Microsoft is getting rid of the old to make room for the new. Just as Windows XP has lost support, Windows server 2003 will soon follow. On July 14, 2015 all support, updates and security patches will cease. This applies to all versions of Server 2003 including Small Business Server 2003.
What does this mean for me? - Well, if you aren't running a 2003 Windows server you have nothing to worry about. If you are, this means an upgrade should be in your very near future. Running a server that is no longer supported by the manufacturer creates several risks. Your outdated server will be vulnerable to any new security threats. Many third party programs and applications may also lose compatibility or support for Server 2003. If you are in an environment where compliance is key, you may fail your security audits. Plain and simple, an upgrade is inevitable. You still have a few months before Server 2003 support ends so now is the best time to begin planning. What upgrade options are available? - There are several options available for upgrading your 2003 Sever but it really depends on your business needs. In some cases a new Windows Server with upgraded remote features and online access may be the best bet. There are also options available that don't require expensive hardware like hosting your exchange email and files in the cloud. No matter what the solution may be, we are always here to help you find the best tailored fit for your company. Schedule your free consultation today! Comments, questions or suggestions? Please comment on this page or contact us here.
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 Microsoft announced almost a year ago that they ended support for Windows XP. As a result, many of you decided to parts ways with your old systems and upgrade your computers to Windows 7 or 8. However, many of you are still running Windows XP for one purpose or another. Working with many different businesses I have heard several reasons why one would not want to upgrade their equipment or applications. Here are a few of my responses to the explanations I've heard:
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it." Although this proverb sometimes holds true, I rarely believe this to be the case with technology. I have witnessed many people dig themselves into a financial hole by putting off upgrades until their equipment no longer allows their business to function properly or until it completely fails. Eventually you will be put in a position where you will have no choice but to upgrade following an emergency like your system crashing, OR, after your equipment/applications become obsolete. Not only is finding equipment that works with older systems becoming more difficult, but replacing outdated yet critical applications can be quite the task too. Either option won’t be friendly to your wallet. That's why I prefer to plan my upgrades so I can budget properly and minimize interruptions instead of being forced to upgrade in an emergency which could potentially cost me more than a planned upgrade would. "It's what we are used to." Growing up my dad taught me to always try new foods no matter how disgusting they seemed. In the end, I usually enjoyed the food I previously deemed nauseating. I have likened this lesson to technology in my own life. If we never try to learn new technology, we will never know what we are missing. Just like some foods, new technology can be nauseating at first. However, you may never know how much easier some tasks could be with better equipment. I understand it can be unnerving to consider change, but isn't the time and money you'll save worth it? Planning systematic, scheduled updates and upgrades of your equipment and applications can save you a lot of money and a lot of headaches in the long run. I know it can seem like a daunting task, and you may not know where to even start. Fortunately, we are here to offer a free IT system consultation for your business to help you choose what options make the most sense for you. Contact us here to get started. Comments, questions or suggestions? Please comment on this page or contact us here. |
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