Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 R2 have reached their end of support lifecycle. For users relying on Windows Server 2008 Software, it’s crucial to understand what this means and the necessary steps to take to ensure continued security and operational efficiency. As of January 14, 2020, Microsoft no longer provides free support for these versions, which impacts several key areas:
- No More Free Security Updates On-Premises: Continuing to run windows server 2008 software without security updates exposes your systems to potential vulnerabilities.
- Absence of Non-Security Updates: You will not receive updates to improve performance, stability, or fix non-security related issues.
- Lack of Free Support Options: Microsoft will not offer free technical assistance for issues related to windows server 2008 software.
- No Online Technical Content Updates: Official documentation and online resources for these versions will no longer be updated.
For organizations still utilizing windows server 2008 software, migration is strongly recommended. Microsoft encourages users to migrate to Microsoft Azure. This move offers the advantage of three additional years of Critical and Important security updates at no extra cost, providing a secure pathway to modernization when you are ready. For environments outside of Azure, upgrading to the latest Windows Server version is the best course of action before the deadline. Organizations unable to upgrade immediately can consider purchasing Extended Security Updates to maintain protection for their server workloads until they can fully upgrade, although some restrictions apply.
Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2 Products Reaching End of Support
The following list details the specific Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2 products that have reached the end of their extended support on January 14, 2020:
| Product | End of Extended Support |
|---|---|
| Windows Server 2008 Datacenter | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 Datacenter without Hyper-V | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 Enterprise | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 Enterprise without Hyper-V | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 for Itanium-Based Systems | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 Foundation | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 Datacenter | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 Enterprise | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for Itanium-Based Systems | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 Standard | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Server 2008 Standard without Hyper-V | 1/14/2020 |
It is highly recommended to plan your migration to Azure or upgrade to a more recent version of Windows Server to benefit from the latest features, performance improvements, and continuous Microsoft support. Utilizing supported windows server software is vital for maintaining a secure and efficient IT infrastructure.
Important Note: Extended Security Updates are not available for all related server products. Be aware that the following server products are NOT eligible for Extended Security Updates:
| Product | End of Extended Support |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Hyper-V Server 2008 | 1/14/2020 |
| Microsoft Hyper-V Server 2008 R2 | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows HPC Server 2008 | 4/14/2020 |
| Windows HPC Server 2008 R2 | 4/14/2020 |
| Windows HPC Server 2008 without Hyper-V | 4/14/2020 |
| Windows Server Update Services 3.0 | 7/14/2009 |
| Windows Server Update Services 3.0 SP1 | 10/12/2010 |
| Windows Server Update Services 3.0 SP2 | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 Basic | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 Basic 32-bit | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 Basic Embedded | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 Basic Embedded 32-bit | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 Enterprise | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 Enterprise Embedded | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 R2 Essentials | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 Standard | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 Standard Embedded | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 Workgroup | 1/14/2020 |
| Windows Storage Server 2008 Workgroup Embedded | 1/14/2020 |
Resources for Migration and Further Information
To assist with your migration planning and provide more detailed information, Microsoft offers the following resources:
- Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2 EOS site: https://www.microsoft.com/cloud-platform/windows-server-2008
- Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2 EOS brochure: https://download.microsoft.com/download/A/D/9/AD9380CD-7282-4848-85CD-F6F62BDC129B/Windows_Server_2008_End_of_Support_Brochure.pdf
- Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2 documentation: /en-us/windows-server/get-started/modernize-windows-server-2008
Get Migration Assistance with the Azure Migration and Modernization Center
The Azure Migration and Modernization Center offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to help you evaluate your current on-premises infrastructure, smoothly transition your workloads to Azure, and optimize your Azure environment to meet your specific business needs. Microsoft also collaborates with a network of Partners who are ready to provide expert assistance throughout every stage of your migration journey from planning to execution when moving your windows server 2008 software and infrastructure.
