Five ways Windows Server 2012 reaching end of support will impact your SAM strategy

When can I expect a software vendor audit?

Keeping your organisation’s software and assets secure and compliant is essential and should be a priority for your organisation.

The easiest way to stay secure your environment is to upgrade to a more recent, supported version of Windows Server. If you cannot upgrade to the next version, you can buy Extended Security Updates for Windows Server 2012/ 2012 R2 to mitigate any risks associated with end of support. The Extended Security Updates (ESUs) are available for up to three years.

By proactively addressing the challenges below, your organisation will maintain a secure and compliant software environment through this transition and beyond.

How does end of support affect my software asset management strategy?

1. Licencing compliance

As an organisation, it is crucial to maintain licencing compliance to avoid legal and financial risks. When Windows Server 2012/ 2012 R2 reaches its end of support, organisations can no longer receive regular security updates unless they purchase Extended Security Updates (ESUs). To access ESUs, customers need to have active Software Assurance (SA) or a subscription licence. IT teams must ensure that the organisation has the necessary licences and entitlements to continue receiving security updates.

2. Inventory management

IT and software asset management (SAM) teams are responsible for maintaining an accurate inventory of software assets within the organisation. With the end of support for Windows Server 2012/ 2012 R2, you’ll need to identify all instances of this operating system across the IT infrastructure. This includes both physical and virtual installations.

3. Upgrade planning and budgeting

If you are looking to upgrade to a supported version of Windows Server, you’ll need to collaborate with IT teams, understand your organisation’s requirements, evaluate hardware and software compatibility, and estimate the costs involved in upgrading.

4. Vendor management

When Windows Server 2012/ 2012 R2 reaches its end of support, IT and software asset management teams may need to engage with vendors to understand their licencing policies and options available for upgrading. You must assess the licencing implications and ensure that any new licences acquired align with the organisation’s SAM strategy.

5. Risk management

SAM teams are responsible for mitigating risks associated with software usage, including security risks. With the end of support for Windows Server 2012/ 2012 R2, SAM teams must prioritise the migration to a supported version, or upgrade to extended support to address potential security vulnerabilities.

Find out how to stay secure and compliant with our free IT health check

We can offer your organisation a free IT health check to help determine what the best and most cost-effective way forward is, ensuring your organisation stays secure and compliant. We’ve helped organisations save up to 50% by reducing their licencing requirements in similar end of support situations.