On January 14, 2020, Microsoft will officially end support for both Windows 7 and Server 2008 operating systems as well as the Exchange 2010 mail and calendaring server. Once a product reaches its end-of-life, no new features, fixes or security updates are released for it.  GSC IT Solutions is placing a heavy focus in 2019 to assist businesses developing and implementing plans to either upgrade or replace the associated equipment to ensure networks can be appropriately maintained, and are highly secure.

Mainstream support for all three already ended in 2015. 2020 will mark the end of extended support as well. Lack of support could leave operating systems and servers open to outside infiltration, elevated cybersecurity risk, hardware compatibility issues, and potential compliance conflicts.

Now is the best time to start planning. Although it may seem a way off, updating IT infrastructure can be a large task, and it will be here before you know it. Particularily when considering that the Microsoft deadline is happening in January right at the beginning of the year, you’ll want time to discuss your options and consider the cost of upgrading any systems. Ideally any upgrades or replacements should be in place for several months before the January 14 end-of-life date to make the transition smooth and avoid any down time or interruptions.

GSC IT Solutions is here to help. We can conduct an assessment of your company’s current infrastructure to help identify any impending vulnerabilities. We can guide you through the best options to keep you competitive, efficient, compliant, and secure.