Microsoft will end mainstream support for Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2 on October 10, 2023. After this date, these products will no longer receive security updates, non-security updates, bug fixes, technical support, or online technical content updates. Microsoft has guidance for both cloud and on-premises solutions.
Information regarding the impacted products and the necessary updates is provided below:
Microsoft Announcement Details:
End-of Support: Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2
Announcement Published: 05/05/2023
What Does Windows Server 2012 End of Support Mean?
End of support means that Microsoft will no longer provide technical support, security updates, or bug fixes for the operating system. This leaves the operating system vulnerable to security threats, and the likelihood of security vulnerabilities increases as time goes on. Without regular updates and patches, the operating system may become unstable, leading to increased downtime and decreased productivity. Continuing to stay on Windows server 2012 will also open your business up to possible compliance issues, for example, HIPAA guidelines mandate your business technology stays on an up-to-date operating system.
Windows Server 2012 R2 End of Life Options:
- If you still have servers on Windows Server 2012, it’s time to start thinking about upgrading your operating system. Upgrading to a newer version of Windows Server can provide many benefits, including improved security, better performance, and new features and functionality. The most recent version of Windows Server is Windows Server 2022, which includes many new features and improvements, including improved security, enhanced performance, and better integration with cloud services.
- Another option to consider is migrating to the cloud. Microsoft Azure provides a secure and scalable platform for hosting your applications and data. You can either start looking at migrating completely to cloud services such as Microsoft 365 or build virtual machines within Azure to host your applications and files.
- Purchase Extended Security Updates: If your Server 2012 or Server 2012 R2 machine is already in Azure, you are eligible for up to an additional year of extended support free. If your server is hosted on-premises, you will need to purchase additional extended security updates.
Customer Action / Remediation:
Customers needing to stay on-premises can upgrade to Windows Server 2022, or purchase Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows Server 2012 – providing up to three years of security updates only. ESUs will continue for three years, renewable on an annual basis, until October 13, 2026. Customers can use Azure Arc to automatically deploy the purchased ESUs on-premises, as well as extend Azure security and governance to their environment.
Additional Information:
· Three options to prepare for Windows Server 2012/R2 end of support – Microsoft Community Hub
· Windows Server 2022 | Microsoft
· Extended Security Updates for SQL Server and Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2 | Microsoft