Windows Server 2016 End of Life: Why Schools and Businesses Should Upgrade Now

Windows Server 2016 reaches end of support on 12 January 2027. With only a few months remaining, schools, multi-academy trusts and businesses still using this operating system should start planning their server upgrade now.

Servers are critical to day-to-day operations, supporting user accounts, shared files, business applications and access to important data. Continuing to use an unsupported server can introduce avoidable cyber security risks.

Why upgrade Windows Server 2016?

Once Microsoft support ends, Windows Server 2016 will no longer receive standard security updates. Newly discovered vulnerabilities may remain unpatched, increasing the risk of cyber attacks.

For schools, this could put sensitive pupil, staff and financial information at risk. For businesses, a compromised server could expose confidential data, disrupt operations and lead to costly downtime.

Upgrading to a supported operating system helps maintain access to security updates and strengthens your organisation's wider cyber security.

Still using Windows Server 2019? Plan ahead

Windows Server 2019 reaches the end of extended support on 9 January 2029. With just over two years remaining, now is the time for schools and businesses to review their infrastructure, plan budgets and consider their upgrade options.

Planning early allows time to check software compatibility, assess hardware requirements and schedule the work to minimise disruption.

Upgrade your server or move to the cloud?

Replacing your server does not necessarily mean buying another physical machine. Depending on your requirements, options include a new on-site server, cloud migration or a hybrid solution.

An upgrade is also an opportunity to review your backups, disaster recovery arrangements and wider cyber security.

How Soltech IT can help

Soltech IT provides IT support, infrastructure projects and cyber security services to schools, multi-academy trusts and businesses.

We can assess your existing server environment, recommend suitable upgrade options and help you plan a secure, cost-effective migration with minimal disruption.

Still running Windows Server 2016? Don't leave your upgrade until the deadline.

Contact Soltech IT to discuss your server upgrade and IT infrastructure requirements.