IT Services To Help You With Your Microsoft Server 2008 Upgrade
“End of life” doesn’t have to be a bad thing.
Sure, it does mean that you’ll have to upgrade your Microsoft Server sooner rather than later. But then you get to enjoy a new system! And, as a bonus, if you do so before the end of the year, you can take advantage of Section 179 to deduct the taxes.
What Is End Of Life, And What Does It Have To Do With Your IT Services?
Microsoft Server 2008 will reach end of life on January 14, 2020.
What does that mean?
This means no more bug fixes or security updates. Over time, the usability of Microsoft Server 2008 will degrade. There will be a loss of usability and increased vulnerability.
By failing to upgrade in time, you’ll face a number of key problems:
- No free security updates on-premises
- No non-security updates
- No free support options
- No online technical content update
All three available editions of Windows Server 2008 R2 will be unsupported after January 14, 2020. This includes:
- Datacenter
- Enterprise
- Standard
Unfortunately, Windows Server 2008 R2 is tightly integrated into the day-to-day functions of many businesses.
End of life is just a part of doing business – no matter what hardware or software you use, eventually it’ll reach the end of its life. Every Windows operating system has a lifecycle. It’s important that you stay up-to-date about essential End-of-Life dates. That’s why your IT services should be helping you to manage it.
What Upgrade Options Should Your IT Services Offer?
- Windows Server/SQL Server: This is a good choice if you’re looking to remain on-premises, but remember, there isn’t a direct upgrade path without performing a clean install, which means you’ll need to upgrade to Windows Server 2012 first to preserve settings.
- Microsoft Azure: Microsoft Azure, the cloud computing service offered by Microsoft as a modern alternative to their older server operating systems. In addition to protecting you from an unsupported operating system, upgrading to Microsoft Azure will offer a number of benefits, such as three additional years of Critical and Important security updates at no additional charge, as well as the many features of Microsoft Azure.
Why Should You Upgrade Before Dec. 31, 2019?
If your computer is three or more years old, and running Windows 7, in most cases it makes sense to get a new one.
For most Windows 7 users, moving to a new device with a Windows 10 operating system is the best path forward. Today’s PCs are faster, lighter in weight, more powerful, and provide increased security.
If they don’t meet the requirements, it may be best to purchase a new machine with Windows 10 installed. Then you can reinstall any current applications that you require. The good news is that now is the perfect time to purchase new hardware because you can take advantage of the 179 Tax Deduction before 12/31/19.
Section 179 of the IRS Code was enacted to enable small businesses like yours to take depreciation deductions for certain assets in the year the property is placed in service rather than depreciating them over a long period of time. For 2019, the deduction is $1,000,000 – meaning you’re able to deduct the full cost of equipment up to $1,000,000 from your taxes.
This offers massive savings that help you make sure you’re keeping up with the latest technologies, and when systems reach their end-of-life, it’s a lot less stressful and costly to upgrade.
Need IT Services That Will Help Manage Your Upgrade?
If you need help in managing end of life and claiming your tax deduction, allow us to assist – our Fort Lauderdale IT Support team can help you build a plan for migrating.
About the author Ilan Sredni
Ilan Sredni, President of Palindrome Consulting, a well-respected business leader, author and Co-Host of the Brilliant Business Radio Show specializes in technology for high caliber businesses, law firms and medical practices.
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