Windows Server 2012 R2 is approaching its end of life on October 17, 2023. This means that Microsoft will no longer provide technical support, bug fixes, or security updates for this version. As a result, construction companies that continue to host their business software on Windows Server 2012 R2 will be exposed to a number of risks, including:
- Security breaches: Windows Server 2012 R2 will no longer be protected against the latest cyber threats, making construction companies more vulnerable to data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other costly and disruptive incidents.
- Non-compliance: Many industries, including construction, have strict data protection and privacy regulations. Running unsupported systems may put construction companies out of compliance, leading to fines, penalties, or even loss of business licenses.
- Slow performance: As hardware and software technologies evolve, Windows Server 2012 R2 will become increasingly outdated and unable to keep up with the demands of modern business software. This can lead to slow performance and downtime, disrupting construction operations.
- Software incompatibility: New software applications and hardware devices may not be compatible with Windows Server 2012 R2. For example, the latest Sage 100 Contactor release (or the previous update 25.1.319) no longer opens on systems using Windows Server 2012 R2.
Construction companies should begin planning to migrate their business software to a supported platform. There are a number of practical options, including:
- Migrate to Windows Server 2022: Windows Server 2022 is the latest version of Windows Server, and it offers many new features and security enhancements. If your server hardware is more than 5 years old, it may need to be replaced due to capacity and age.
- Migrate to the cloud: Large organizations with multiple sites or 24/7 operations may consider moving to the cloud computing platforms Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Service. Cloud computing offers reliability and scalability.
- Outsource to IT services provider: For small to medium businesses, working with IT service providers like Digitek may be the best way to migrate their business software to a supported platform. Our qualified IT expert can help assess your current Sage environment, develop a migration plan, and implement that plan smoothly and efficiently.
The best option for construction companies will depend on their specific needs and budget. Whether you prefer on-premises solutions, cloud computing, or managed IT services, it is important to start planning for the migration as soon as possible to avoid the risks associated with running unsupported software. We can help you make a smooth transition, contact us today to get started!
