Navigating the Transition: Migrate to Azure for Uninterrupted Support
The clock is ticking for those who rely on SQL Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012. With SQL Server 2012 having reached its end of support on July 12, 2022, and Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 preparing for its farewell on October 10, 2023, organizations are at an important crossroads. Once these milestones pass, these platforms will not receive further updates, leaving them vulnerable without security patches, bug fixes, or the comfort of technical support.
But here's the silver lining: this period of transition offers an unparalleled opportunity for organizations to re-evaluate their infrastructure, streamline operations, and tap into more powerful, secure, and cost-effective solutions.
Why Migrate to Azure?
Azure emerges as the beacon in this transitionary phase for several reasons:
Uninterrupted Security and Support: When you migrate to Azure, concerns about the end of support dates fade away. Azure ensures that your systems remain up-to-date with its built-in updating mechanisms, shielding your workloads against potential threats. With Azure, security isn’t just an add-on; it's integral.
Azure SQL Managed Instance: This fully managed platform-as-a-service (PaaS) is always updated, ensuring you stay ahead of vulnerabilities and maintain optimal performance.
Azure Virtual Machines: Customers looking for a more immediate solution can leverage Azure's offerings like Azure Dedicated Host, Azure VMware Solution, and Azure Stack (Hub, HCI, Edge) to lift-and-shift their operations. The best part? You get three additional years of extended security updates at no additional cost.
Azure's Multifaceted Benefits: While security is paramount, Azure isn’t a one-trick pony. Migrating your servers to Azure opens the door to a host of advantages:
Cost Efficiency: Azure provides flexible pricing models. Whether you have variable or predictable workloads, Azure offers pricing models such as Pay-As-You-Go and Reserved Instances to cater to diverse business needs.
Scalability: Azure's infrastructure is designed for growth. Whether you're scaling up or down, Azure has the capacity and flexibility to support your evolving needs without breaking a sweat.
Alternative On-Premises Solutions: If you're looking to retain your operations on-premises, consider upgrading to Windows Server 2022 and SQL Server 2019. For those eligible customers with Software Assurance under an Enterprise Agreement, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 and SQL Server 2012.
IDC's Endorsement: IDC, a premier global provider of market intelligence, has furnished a comprehensive report underscoring the manifold advantages of migrating to Azure. The findings reveal that Microsoft Azure isn’t just about cost savings; it’s a catalyst for business transformation. Organizations leveraging Azure aren't merely running their workloads in the cloud; they're generating remarkable value, optimizing performance, and driving innovation.
Looking Ahead
For organizations still pondering the next move, it's essential to view this end-of-support phase not as an ending but a new beginning. It's an invitation to transition to a platform like Azure that promises not just to support but to elevate. Azure doesn’t just offer a place for your workloads; it provides a vibrant ecosystem where they can thrive. So, as the sun sets on SQL Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012, it's time to step into a brighter, Azure-lit future.