Are You Still Running Microsoft Technologies That Will Soon Reach Their End-of-Life Date?
When manufacturers create newer models and more advanced forms of technology, they start ending support for their older, more outdated systems. We know it’s frustrating, especially when you’ve spent a lot of money on servers, computers, and other networking equipment and it’s working well for you. But once your systems reach their end-of-life, the manufacturer stops offering support and/or updates. Even if the systems still appear to be working fine, you’re bound to run into issues, such as:
- More crashes and/or unexpected downtime: It’s a fact: Outdated technology that’s no longer supported tends to crash and fail more often than newer technology. Unfortunately, it’s often more expensive to repair older computers or servers as well.
- Higher cost for maintenance and support: As mentioned above, it’s more expensive to repair older computers and servers. In fact, research shows it costs almost double to repair a system that’s 4 or more years older compared to newer systems.
- Greater vulnerabilities leading to malware infections: Manufacturers stop releasing updates and security patches to resolve vulnerabilities once a product reaches the end-of-support date. This means you’re no longer safe against a myriad of threats out there.
When Do Windows 7 and Windows 2008 Servers Reach Their End-of-Life Dates?
Microsoft’s two popular systems: Windows 7 and Windows 2008 Server, are both coming up to their end-of-life dates. Windows 7, for instance, will reach its end-of-support date on January 14, 2020. Windows Server 2008, on the other hand, hasn’t had mainstream support since January 13, 2015. Now, Microsoft is ending support altogether on January 14, 2020. This means it’s time to look into upgrading both systems as soon as possible.
What’s the rush? Well, most IT companies, including Alltek, are starting to get booked up fast with businesses rushing to upgrade before it’s too late. In fact, many businesses are rushing to upgrade before the end of the year to take advantage of Section 179 - an incredibly helpful tax code that enables them to deduct the full purchase price of equipment or software that qualifies.
Essentially, Section 179 lets you deduct the entire purchase price from your gross income rather than capitalizing and depreciating the asset over the useful life. This is seriously helpful - but of course, it means it’s important to book a meeting with a local IT company as soon as possible to avoid missing the deadline (December 31, 2019 at midnight) to take advantage of this tax deduction.
What Are Your Options for Upgrading Window 7 and Windows Server 2008 Before Their End-of-Life Dates?
If your Windows 7 computer is less than 3 years old, then it is probably a "downgrade." These can be upgraded to Windows 10 pro without needing to purchase the license. If they are over 3 years old, it would be worth replacing the computer. The cost of the license alone is around $200. The typical lifespan of a business computer is 5-6 years, so this would be a great time to take advantage of the benefits of a newer/faster computer.
Windows Server 2008 are older servers and should be replaced as soon as possible. There are a few options that you have here:
Replace on-premise server: We can migrate you to a new server that will match your needs.
Move to the cloud: You can select one of the following cloud-based options, including:
- Cloud Option 1: Work with your IT team to evaluate whether an on-premise server is required for your needs. Many operations no longer need an on-premise server.
- Cloud Option 2: If a server is required, host it in a secure data center. There is no longer any reason to have your server on premise and vulnerable to the elements. Hosting it in our secure data center will give you peace of mind while working with virtually 100% up time.
- Cloud Option 3: Don't buy a server. Instead, be hosted on our infrastructure. We already have state of the art servers and infrastructure. Lease space from our infrastructure and take advantage of the sophistication, without the large price tag.
Ready to Upgrade from Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008? Let’s Talk. If You Upgrade Before December 31, 2019 at Midnight, You Can Take Advantage of Section 179. Call (863) 216-8430 Now.
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