End of life - Windows Server 2012

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As of 10th October 2023, Windows Servers 2012 and 2012 R2 reached their end of life. You are now no longer able to operate on these systems securely, as Microsoft does not offer updates (of any kind), bug fixes or technical support on these servers. 

Previously, the only option when a server reached its end of life was to purchase a new one or upgrade to a newer version (the latest being Windows Server 2022). With many organisations still operating on Windows Server 2012, upgrading or switching to a new server is likely to have a costly impact. If you read our post when ESUs came to an end, you will know Cloudhouse offers another solution – if you didn’t, then this blog will give you a refresher. 

The importance of updating your systems 

It may be tempting to continue using Windows Server 2012 or 2012 R2, but you risk running your business through unsafe conditions – in fact, it is surprisingly common for businesses to be aware of security patches, yet still avoid switching to new systems as the process can seem daunting, complicated and time-consuming. 

By using an outdated server, organisations will not only find their operations to be slower, but they will be running on outdated security measures, therefore making their company more vulnerable to cyberattacks. 

Let Cloudhouse help

With the end of Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2, businesses must upgrade or purchase a new server, and as new updates continuously arise you can find yourself stuck in a cycle of expense. Cloudhouse offers two alternative solutions that help organisations with their end-of-life needs while avoiding the cost of multiple upgrades – by shifting your existing applications onto newer operating systems.

Guardian effectively monitors your systems, giving visibility into what needs updating or removing. By implementing Guardian, businesses can continuously monitor their operating systems for outdated applications and security flaws before problems arise – keeping the organisation safe and compliant with ever-changing regulations. Additionally, Alchemy is an application compatibility service that takes applications from old environments and safely transfers them onto the latest platforms. 

Cloudhouse fixes issues quickly and for good, minimising the risk of problems further down the line; cyberattacks, business disruption and reputational brand damage. 

If you would like to know how Cloudhouse can assist you with your migrating needs, send us a message today.

About Cloudhouse

Avatar photoCloudhouse is experienced in problematic application migration and config monitoring systems to fix the unfixable and modernise any IT estate – whether it’s run on-premises or in the cloud. With two proven solutions; Alchemy: Cloudhouse Application Packaging Solution modernises IT estates by fixing unfixable apps and moves them onto a supported operating system.



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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Commercials
How much does Cloudhouse cost? Down Arrow

Cloudhouse costs are split into two elements – the licensing required to deploy application compatibility packages, and the professional services needed to create the application compatibility packages.

Licensing is offered on a per user basis for desktop applications and a per server basis for server applications. There are discounts available based on volumes.

Professional Services costs are dependent on the nature and complexity of the application. We quote a cost for packaging once we have been able to see the application, or portfolio of applications.

Contact us here with your requirements and we will provide you with a quote.

Packaging and Maintaining Applications
Who is responsible for packaging desktop and server applications? Down Arrow

Cloudhouse provide the Professional Services to package applications.

Requirements for Test and Development Down Arrow

Cloudhouse recommend packaged applications are tested in the standard UAT environments used for natively installed applications, or applications packaged in App-V. The more representative the test environment is of the live environment, the greater the chance of finding any issues prior to go-live.

Updating Applications Down Arrow

Service packs and updates can be applied to the applications in a package using the Editor, refer to Updating, Editing and Maintaining Containers which describes how a new snapshot is created for the update, and how it is then applied to the package.

Operations
Who manages Cloudhouse operationally within an account? Down Arrow

Cloudhouse recommends the same team who manage the operations of native apps.

Automation and Deployment Down Arrow

Applications running in Application Compatibility Packages can be deployed, and managed with same tools, or scripts used to deploy natively installed applications e.g. SCCM, InTune, LAN Desk. Please refer to Supported 3rd Party Products and Versions for details.

Support
How do we know which of our departments/ teams should support the Package? Down Arrow

The Cloudhouse Package does not include OS components, it only contains the packaged application plus Cloudhouse components. Cloudhouse recommend the same team that is responsible for supporting applications packaged with App-V, or delivered as natively installed applications, support Cloudhouse Application Compatibility Containers.

Documentation for Service Desk & Service Management Down Arrow

Full documentation is made available to Cloudhouse partners and customers as required.

Training
Do Cloudhouse provide training? Down Arrow

Cloudhouse offers a full packaging service that can scale to meet any requirement. In the event, however, that a partner wishes to offer application compatibility packaging as part of a wider solution, Cloudhouse will work with that partner. Please contact us here for details.