Changes to Microsoft Support

Not many people realise this, but in April 2014 Microsoft removed technical support for Windows XP and Office 2003.  This is in addition to having already removed support for Windows 2000 and Windows 98.

In June 2015 they are also going to be withdrawing their support for Windows Small Business Server (SBS) 2003.

What does this mean?

It means that Microsoft NO LONGER offer security updates, assisted-support or online technical content updates for these systems.  In addition, from July 2015 they will also be withdrawing their support for Windows Small Business Server (SBS) 2003 as well.

How does this affect you?

Although servers and workstations running older versions of software will not immediately stop working because Microsoft has removed support, most importantly you will no longer be able to receive new security updates, non-security hotfixes, free or paid assisted support options or online technical content updates.

This means that any new vulnerability discovered after end of life will not be addressed by new security updates by Microsoft. In short, it will be easier for attackers to successfully compromise your Small Business Server or Windows XP-based systems and your systems will be highly vulnerable to cyber-attack.

In terms of providing support to your IT systems, Pearce IT will still have the specialist knowledge and expertise to provide the support but occasionally we must escalate support directly to Microsoft with issues relating to the software code itself.  In the absence of Microsoft support on these types of issues, we will be unable to support customers if any technical difficulties arise from these

Without Microsoft support on these types of issues, we will be unable to support customers if any technical difficulties arise from these.

In addition, if you are running a Small Business Server (SBS) you might be running a wide range of software on this such as email, Sage Accounts, document storage, CAD Drawings or bespoke management software. Running any software on an SBS 2003 puts these applications and data at risk.

What can you do?

This will vary from business to business and will depend on how you currently use your IT. Which systems are using the outdated Windows operating systems and what your business requires in the future.

We recommend that you review exactly how this withdrawal of support from Microsoft might impact the way in which you work and, where necessary, take steps to minimise any risks.

Pearce IT will work with you to look at the different options available to you to ensure your data is protected.  We will ensure the full end-to-end migration to a newer support operating system goes as smoothly, and stress-free, as possible.

Simply give us a call on 01452 222000 and we’ll be happy to talk through your options.