'Support for Windows Server 2003 ends soon', Microsoft warns Indian CIOs

Microsoft said July 14, 2015, deadline for which it will end support for Windows Server 2003 is final. And with less than 100 days to go, the company asks the CIOs to move to its latest version of the platform, Windows Server 2012 R2, or Microsoft Azure. End of support means there will be no security updates and no compliance.

Tyler Bryson, general manager, marketing and operations, Microsoft, said, “With only 100 days remaining for the end of support for Windows Server 2003, it’s time for businesses to accelerate their migration plans. In the mobile-first, cloud-first world, running enterprises on unsupported platforms will not only have cost and security implications, but will also cause enterprises to fall behind on the innovation curve. We urge all businesses to transition to Windows Server 2012 R2 or Microsoft Azure to reduce risks, embrace the latest in platform technology and modernise their infrastructure. Along with our partners, we are committed to help customers to move to modern Microsoft platforms.”

Several key partners are working closely with Microsoft to help customers move to modern platforms before support for Windows Server 2003 ends on July 14, 2015.

“Aligned with the end of support timelines for Windows Server 2003, we have designed solutions to help our customers proactively address migration issues and provide a smooth transition. Given that delay in migration can cause serious business issues, we have created a host of solutions to cater to the needs of businesses," said Manish Gupta, director, enterprise solutions group, Dell India.

Siddhesh S Naik, director, enterprise business group, Lenovo India, added, “With Microsoft ending support for Windows Server 2003, there will be no more support for applications or programmes, and it will cause noncompliance with existing security and regulatory norms. We have worked with Microsoft to outline the Lenovo Windows Server 2003 End of Support Program, which is aimed at providing enterprises with information, sales tools, collateral, and programs to help migrate. These services include detailed assessments, migration and integration, and will allow customers to move to System x platforms running the latest Windows Server 2012 R2 operating system.”