Why does your CFO care about the end of Server 2003 Support?

Sometimes, selling an IT infrastructure upgrade to your CFO isn't easy. We've given you some information to arm yourself - upgrading old server versions is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.

What is Windows 2003?

Windows 2003 is server software that is used by many businesses to serve applications, store databases, distribute email and perform other critical functions.

What’s changing?

If you are still running Windows Server 2003 in your datacenter, you need to take steps now to plan and execute a migration strategy to protect your infrastructure. In July 2010, Microsoft transitioned from providing mainstream support for Windows Server 2003 to releasing critical patches only. July 14, 2015 marks another transition, this time the end of Microsoft support for Windows Server 2003/R2.

How will this impact the business?

• No Compliance: Lack of compliance with various standards and regulations can be devastating. This may include various regulatory and industry standards for which compliance can no longer be achieved. For example, lack of compliance with Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standards could mean that companies such as Visa and MasterCard will no longer do business with your organization. Or, the new cost of doing business will include paying penalties and high transaction fees

• No Updates: 37 critical updates were released in 2013 for Windows Server 2003/R2 under extended support. No updates will be developed or released after end of support. Imagine what impact zero updates will have on your infrastructure.

• No Safe Haven: All servers running Windows Server 2003/R2 are affected. Both virtualized and physical instances of Windows Server 2003/R2 are vulnerable and would not pass a compliance audit. Many applications will also cease to be supported, once the operating system they are running on is unsupported. This includes all Microsoft applications.

• Support Costs will Increase: For example, a Custom Support Agreement (CSA) requires an application and has a high minimum entry cost. The cost doubles each year. Maintenance costs for aging hardware will also increase, and customers will face added costs for intrusion detection systems, more advanced firewalls, network segmentation, and other security measures—all simply to isolate Windows Server 2003/R2 servers.

Educate your leadership team regarding the business risks associated with the July 14, 2015 end of Microsoft support for Windows Server 2003/R2.