Essential Guide
A guide to Windows Server 2003 end of life
Introduction
With Microsoft ending support for Windows Server 2003 on July 14, 2015, the time has come for users to migrate to a new server.
This guide will help you prepare to move away from Windows Server 2003 and avoid any problems during the process. It will also look at some choices for a new server, including Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2.
1Is a migration right for you?-
Weighing the Windows Server 2003 migration options
As Windows Server 2003 reaches its end of life, users will have to decide whether they want to remain on the server. Here are some considerations to take into account.
Preparing to migrate from Windows Server 2003
Before you migrate from Windows Server 2003 to a new server, determine if you will need additional hardware capacity or completely new hardware. You'll also want to consider whether you want to consolidate servers. Continue Reading
Unexpected costs of a Windows Server 2003 migration
Migrating from Windows Server 2003 could cost your enterprise more money than initially planned. System incompatibilities, old hardware and security issues due to unavailable patches and hotfixes can increase the cost of a migration. Continue Reading
Weighing options for a migration from Windows Server 2003
Enterprises have a number of upgrade options in the post-Windows Server 2003 world. Some organizations may consider upgrading to Windows Server 2012, while others may consider a jump to Amazon Web Services (AWS) or other cloud options. Continue Reading
Should you migrate to the cloud from Windows Server 2003?
There are pros and cons to migrating from Windows Server 2003 to a public cloud such as Azure or AWS. While the cloud allows instant deployment for numerous workloads, the costs can be unpredictable. Continue Reading
What to ask before migrating from Windows Server 2003
There are three questions to ask before migrating from Windows Server 2003 to ensure the process is successful. One such question is whether target servers will be physical or virtual. Continue Reading
2Move from Windows Server 2003-
Prepping for a Windows Server 2003 migration
Now that you've decided to migrate from Windows Server 2003, it's time to prepare for the process, get the wheels in motion and avoid common mistakes.
Avoid these Windows Server 2003 upgrade blunders
Proper research and planning is essential to avoid problems during a migration off Windows Server 2003. Admins must address compatibility issues and keep applications and services available during the process to prevent a loss of productivity and profitability. Continue Reading
Why a breakup with Windows Server 2003 may be difficult
Significant hardware upgrades, lack of budget to buy new software platforms and the expenses of refurbishing old applications can stymie some IT shops in their move off Windows Server 2003. Continue Reading
A Windows Server 2003 migration delay could cost you
Organizations that can't complete a Windows Server 2003 migration by July 14, 2015, should be prepared to pay Microsoft's extended support fees. A custom support agreement will cost your enterprise roughly $600 per server in the first year. Continue Reading
Vendors prepare customers for Windows Server 2003 end of life
With the end of life for Windows Server 2003 looming, vendors are warning customers about the risks of staying on the server once mainstream support ends. Data centers running outdated software should be prepared to deal with advanced firewalls and additional costs for intrusion detection systems. Continue Reading
Moving off Windows Server 2003 before it's too late
Before Windows Server 2003 reaches its end of life, organizations should rewrite old applications to improve security and stability, and add a few new features. Organizations should also contact vendors about 64-bit versions of key software, or start looking for replacements. Continue Reading
3Migrate to Windows Server 2012-
Moving on to Windows Server 2012 or Windows Server 2012 R2
For enterprises that have chosen to skip over Windows Server 2008, the next best options are Windows Server 2012 or Windows Server 2012 R2.
Is it time for your enterprise to migrate to Windows Server 2012?
If your enterprise has plans for a large-scale virtualized environment, a Windows Server 2012 migration might be a good choice. The OS features an enhancement to Hyper-V called Replica, which provides continuity with disaster recovery sites. Continue Reading
Steps for migrating to Windows Server 2012
Once you've decided to migrate to Windows Server 2012, the first step is to ensure that your hardware meets the minimum requirements. You'll also want to upgrade your system's ROM and update miniport drivers and their corresponding firmware. Continue Reading
Windows Server 2012 R2 upgrade prep
To avoid issues during an upgrade Windows Server 2012 R2, consider testing upgrades and rollbacks in the lab first. Performing full backups of each server and virtual machine will also mitigate any losses in case the upgrade fails. Continue Reading
Migration options for Windows Server 2003
Organizations are considering Windows 2008 or Windows 2012 upgrades, along with the option of choosing a cloud deployment, when moving off of Windows Server 2003. Continue Reading
Benefits of a Windows Server 2012 migration
With an improved Server Core, as well as an additional 2,300 cmdlets in PowerShell 3.0, Windows Server 2012 may be a good fit for enterprises that want to get more from their server hardware. Continue Reading
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