As many of you have heard, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2, and Windows 7 Operating Systems will attain End-of-Support status on January 14, 2020. Therefore, if your network contains any Server 2008, Server 2008 R2, or Windows 7 operating systems, it is important to put a plan in place now to ensure these operating systems are removed from your network prior to this date.
What does End of Support status mean for you and your business? This change in status is most impactful with respect to the security of your network. Windows Server 2008, Server 2008 R2, and Windows 7 have each been in service for many years. This public exposure not only permits developers to observe and improve an operating system’s performance, it also provides the opportunity for malicious research to identify and exploit potential vulnerabilities. After January 14, 2020, Microsoft will no longer test for security vulnerabilities or deploy counter measures to stop vulnerabilities. In addition to these security considerations, Microsoft will no longer deploy patches to correct performance bugs, or compatibility issues (such as system driver updates and other software compatibility updates). Finally, application vendors commonly align their support policies with Microsoft’s End of Support dates, by requiring their clients to use supported operating systems in order to receive application support after January 14, 2020.
When considering an upgrade to Windows 10, it is important to choose Windows 10 Pro as it features the latest technology specifically built for business. You may migrate existing computers to Windows 10 Pro or acquire new computers with Windows 10 Pro pre-installed. If upgrading existing computers, it is important to ensure your current applications are compatible with Windows 10 Pro. In addition, please ensure these computers have the following requirements to support Windows 10 Pro:
• 1GHz processor or faster
• 1GB RAM for 32-bit; 2GB for 64-bit
• Up to 20GB available hard disk space
• 800 x 600 screen resolution or higher
• DirectX 9 graphics processor with WDDM driver
After further review and research, River Run does not believe that Microsoft will extend the end of support date beyond January 14, 2020. If you are an R-MIT client, River Run will be discussing these upgrades with you. If you are not an R-MIT client and would like additional information on operating system updates, please give us a call at 414-228-7474.
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