With Windows Server 2003 Reaching Its EOS, What's Next For Data Centers?

By Jeff Kennedy, Business Value Marketing Manager, Eaton

With its July 14 end-of-service date just past, Windows Server 2003 leaves many data center operators considering what’s next for their networks. The imminent server migration will impact support, security, and cloud functionality for data centers still operating on the expiring server, so it is critical for them to evaluate power management and virtualization strategies. Going beyond the server provides several benefits, everything from improved security and enhanced scalability to proficiencies for expanded virtualization.

That’s not to say that your IT channel customers looking to achieve these benefits won’t face issues and obstacles that must be addressed. Whether they’re looking to set up on premises or deploy to the cloud, here are four steps you can advise them to take to enhance their IT strategy as they move on from Windows Server 2003:

1. Take inventory. Encourage your customers to calculate the entire wattage consumption of their current environment prior to making any changes. How many servers do they have currently running on Windows Server 2003 and will they be replaced? Are there any other pieces of ancillary equipment that they will need to upgrade? It’s also important for data center and IT managers to examine their current power infrastructure by asking how many existing uninterruptible power systems (UPSs) and rack power distribution units (PDUs) they have supporting their equipment. Once their inventory is accounted for, your customers will have a better understanding of what is required, the potential cost for upgrades and which equipment can still be utilized.

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