Microsoft recently announced that they will be ending support of Windows Server 2003 on July 14, 2015. If your company is still using Windows Server 2003, here are five reasons why you need to upgrade today:
After July 14, Microsoft will no longer release updates for Windows Server 2003. This means that your company will miss out on essential fixes for bugs and security risks, which could leave you vulnerable to viruses, hackers, serious errors and loss of your important files.
The end of support for Windows Server 2003 means you can no longer contact Microsoft’s customer support for any issues with the software. If something goes wrong, you’re on your own.
After Microsoft stops supporting Windows Server 2003, software and hardware manufacturers will eventually stop designing their products to be compatible with it. If you purchase new software, computers or devices like printers and scanners, they may not work properly with Windows Server 2003.
Microsoft has released two more versions of Windows Server since 2003: Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2012. These newer versions feature many improvements over 2003, like better security, more online capabilities and easier access from just about anywhere. Upgrading to one of these improved versions can help your company run smoother and more efficiently.
If you’re thinking of switching to cloud computing, where your files are stored online instead of on your computer’s hard drive, it’s time to upgrade from Windows Server 2003. The newer versions of Server work much better with cloud technology like Microsoft’s Azure. They also come with Microsoft’s new Hyper-V technology, which makes it easier to set up a cloud or expand an existing one.