The end of ESUs
As of 10th January 2023, Microsoft offered their Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 7, Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2008/R2. Microsoft will no longer allow businesses to pay for security updates to protect their systems which are outdated (Windows 7 and 8.1 and Windows Server 2008/R2). Historically, the only options were to either purchase new PCs/Servers or upgrade to Windows 10 or 11, newer versions of Windows Server. Cloudhouse now offers a third solution.
ESUs were originally created for Microsoft applications and operating systems that have come to the end of their life. Their purpose was to update these systems to their most up-to-date states so they can function with the highest level of security available – without having to purchase or install a new version. With many organisations still operating on Windows 7 at the end of last year, the discontinuation of ESUs will likely have a costly impact on businesses upgrading their systems.
In addition to ESUs coming to an end, Microsoft and Google will be releasing their latest version of Edge (109) and Chrome (109) which will be supported by Windows 7 and 8.1. Any browsers older than this will no longer work with outdated Windows systems.
Why should you update your systems?
Not only is it impossible to gain access to ESUs anymore, but running a business through legacy applications (systems that are over a decade old) can be risky. If organisations continue to run applications in these old environments, they will be using outdated security systems, making their company more vulnerable to cyberattacks.
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 and complicated.
Cloudhouse can help
Without access to ESUs, businesses must purchase new software or hardware, and as new updates continuously arise you can find yourself stuck in a cycle of expensive updates. 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 which 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.
