End of Service for Windows Server 2008 and SQL Server 2008

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All aboard! This train is heading to the Cloud in T minus six months. If you haven’t already moved to the Azure SQL Database, it may be time to reconsider.

Line of business applications tend to run on the Windows and SQL Server, making it critical that your operating systems are up-to-date and receiving regular security and bug fixes as the applications hosted here are typically essential to your business’ day-to-day functions. The SQL Server 2008 has less than six months left until it’s reached End of Support (EOS).

So what does this mean for your company? Failure to update will leave you without routine security patches, exposing your company to security risks and potential compliance failures. Along with the SQL Server 2008 and 2008 R2 reaching EOS, Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 R2 will soon be reaching EOS as well. Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2 users should expect to upgrade before January 2020.

If you are currently running SQL or Windows Server 2008, you may have some questions before making a switch. Below, we have have answered some of the basics, but as always, if you have additional questions or concerns please contact your account representative to discuss solutions specific to your business’ needs.

 

WHY SHOULD I UPGRADE?

The applications your business is running on the SQL Server are the lifeline of your business.

Since the release of Windows and SQL Server 2008, there have been six newer versions released, and 11 years have gone by. Think of how much technology has evolved since 11 years ago. Many of us were still carrying flip phones. Yahoo! Mail was more popular than Gmail. MySpace had 126 million unique annual visitors. You get the idea. It was a while ago.

Newer versions of SQL Servers and the Azure SQL Database allow for hybrid options, customized specifically for your business needs. The results?

It’s important to note that security updates stop once a system reaches EOS. That means your business-critical applications will be at risk in a cyber landscape that’s more dangerous than ever before. Security breaches could mean loss of revenue and loss of customer trust, not to mention potential compliance and legal consequences. Migrating data to the Azure SQL Database gives you and your customers industry-leading security and privacy.

With an upgrade, you should experience Increased performance through built-in intelligence. Machine learning and adaptive technologies consider how your business is using applications over time and continually optimizes your database for performance. This will improve memory usage, throughout, latency, and query performance.

Switching from an on-premise SQL Server to a hybrid option can streamline your data management, resulting in reduced maintenance and administrative costs.

Staying in front of the competition requires your best minds to make decisions based on real-time data. Newer SQL Servers offer a better foundation of reporting and business intelligence, helping you put the right data in the hands of the right people at your business, exactly when and how they need it.

These improved reporting functions will be especially noticed across your accounting, operations and sales departments.

 

WHEN DOES THIS DECISION NEED TO BE MADE?

SQL Server 2008 and SQL Server 2008 R2 will reach EOS on July 9, 2019. Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 R2’s deadline is January 14, 2020. We recommend planning your upgrade strategy as soon as possible.

 

READY TO UPGRADE?

While migrating your systems may seem daunting, our experienced team of engineers have tried and true processes to help upgrade your outdated Servers with as little disruption to your business as possible. We look at End of Support as an opportunity to take a critical look at your systems and be forward-thinking. It’s an opportunity to be innovative with your business applications, finding new ways to increase business agility and cost savings. When you’re ready to upgrade, give your account manager a call or contact the SWICKtech offices at 414-257-9266.

Stop potential hackers in their tracks.

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