Is Your Windows Server Ready for End of Support?

As Windows Server versions reach their end of support, businesses face critical decisions. Without security updates, outdated systems become vulnerable to cyber threats. This blog explores how Extended Security Updates (ESU) can keep your systems protected while you plan for future migrations.

What is Extended Security Updates (ESU)?

The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program offers businesses security updates for legacy Microsoft products beyond their official support dates. ESU ensures security for up to three additional years, providing time to transition to newer platforms with minimal disruption.

Windows Server End of Support Dates

It’s crucial to know the key support dates to avoid service disruptions:

• Windows Server 2012/2012 R2: Ended on October 10, 2023.
• Windows Server 2016: Mainstream support ended on January 11, 2022. Extended support will end on January 12, 2027.
• Windows Server 2019: Mainstream support ends on January 9, 2024, with extended support available until January 9, 2029.
• Windows Server 2022: Mainstream support ends on October 13, 2026. Extended support continues until October 14, 2031.

What Are Your Options When Windows Server Reaches End of Support?

1. Do Nothing: Operating without support is an option, but it leaves your system vulnerable to threats.
2. Migrate to a Newer Version: Stay secure by upgrading to the latest Windows Server.
3. Migrate to Azure and Receive Free ESUs: Microsoft offers ESUs at no additional cost for SQL Server and Windows Server when hosted on Azure.
4. Buy Extended Support via Traditional ESU Licensing: Available through agreements like EA, EAS, SCE, MPSA, and CSP.
5. Use Azure Arc for Flexible ESU Licensing: Azure Arc offers monthly licensing options, providing a more cost-effective and flexible alternative.

Migrate to Azure and Get ESUs for Free

Migrating your servers to Azure not only ensures ongoing security but also provides Extended Security Updates at no additional cost. This includes both SQL Server and Windows Server for three years beyond their end-of-support date.

Additionally, Azure Hybrid Benefit offers further savings by allowing you to reuse existing on-premises licenses when migrating to Azure.

Buy Extended Support Through ESU Licensing

Traditional ESU licenses follow the same per-core licensing model as standard Windows Server licenses, with a minimum of 16 cores per server. If you’re working with virtual machines (VMs), ESU supports licensing per VM with a minimum of 8 cores per VM.

For those using System Center, the most cost-effective licensing option is through an SCE agreement, which offers a 5% discount on standardized workloads. Alternatively, the MPSA agreement allows access to international price lists.

Buy ESU Licenses with Azure Arc

Azure Arc introduces a more flexible ESU model, allowing customers to opt into monthly licensing rather than committing to an annual agreement. This option can also reduce costs by up to 15% compared to traditional licensing models.

Azure Arc licenses are available to servers connected to Azure Arc, making them eligible for ESUs without the need to purchase annual licenses upfront.

Rules for Extended Security Updates

• If you sign up after the official end-of-support date, Microsoft applies a one-time bill-back charge for the period from the start of the ESU year to your enrolment date.
• A Software Assurance (SA) or equivalent subscription is required to buy ESUs, except for license-included services through CSP-Hosters.

Installing ESU Updates

• Azure-hosted VMs: If your virtual machines are configured to receive updates, ESUs are applied automatically and free of charge.
• On-premises or hybrid environments: Access ESU activation keys via the Microsoft 365 Admin Center or install updates through Azure Arc-enabled servers.

Plan Ahead and Stay Protected!

With end-of-support deadlines fast approaching, businesses must act to maintain security and performance. Whether migrating to Azure or purchasing ESU licenses, ensuring continued support is critical to minimising risks.

If you’re ready to explore your options, contact us at info@2-data.com.

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