Windows Server 2012 will reach end of support in October 2023

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Key notes

  • Windows Server 2012 is approaching the end of the road.
  • Microsoft is advising users to move to supported versions.
  • Remember that you have until the end of the year to do it.
server 2012

Just like all good things must come to an end, so do various versions of Microsoft-designed software, even if we’ve been using them for quite some time and don’t feel like giving them up.

However, the software giant must put to rest some obsolete versions of software, in order to come up with new, better ones.

So is the story of Windows Server 2012, which is apparently next in line to be retired by the Redmond-based tech company.

But don’t worry, you still have until the end of the year almost, so make sure you get all your work done and move to a newer, still supported version.

Prepare for the Windows Server 2012 end of support

After Windows 10 version 22H2, and the good old Windows 8.1 reaching end of support, Microsoft turned its eye toward Windows Server 2012.

Indeed, the company has reminded customers that the extended support for all editions of Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2 will end on October 10.

Remember that Windows Server 2012 reached its mainstream support end date over four years ago, in October 2018.

However, Microsoft pushed back the end date for extended support by five years to allow users to migrate to newer, under-support Windows Server versions.

Naturally, once the end of extended support is reached, Microsoft will stop providing technical support and bug fixes for newly discovered issues that may impact the stability or usability of servers running the two OS versions.

Please note that today’s reminder comes after two other warnings issued since July 2021 that this Windows version will reach its retirement date later this year.

The Redmond-based tech giant advises admins who want to keep their on-premises Windows Server 2012 servers running and receiving bug fixes and security updates to upgrade to Windows Server 2022 or purchase Extended Security Updates (ESUs). 

As you most likely know, ESUs will provide them with up to three more years of security updates, renewable every year until October 13, 2026.

Another option would be to migrate their databases and applications to Azure Virtual Machines, which will also provide them with free ESUs for three years after the end of support. 

Microsoft mentioned that, for on-premises servers, customers can use Azure Arc to receive automated/scheduled ESU updates and installation as well as the security and governance capabilities in Azure.

Also, keep in mind that Windows Server 2008/R2 Extended Security Updates (ESUs) will also reach end support on January 10, 2023.

What is, in your opinion, the best version of Windows Server to migrate to? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

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