As of April 12, 2016, Microsoft will no longer issue security updates for SQL Server 2005. If you’re still running this server, you need to take steps now to plan your migration.
Why migrate?
Risk. Security updates help protect PCs from harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. Computer systems running unsupported software are exposed to elevated risk. The consequences could include loss of confidentiality, integrity, and or availability of data, system resources and business assets. You may also encounter compatibility problems since new software and hardware may not work with outdated servers.
Performance and scalability. An upgrade to Microsoft’s SQL Server 2014 or Azure SQL Database means dramatic performance gains, enhanced uptime and manageability, better use of hardware resources, and options for a hybrid cloud solution.
Keep in mind that it takes two to three months to migrate your server. For this or any software upgrade, there are five key milestones:
- Setup the software upgrading plans
- Database upgrade and data migration
- User acceptance testing
- Customization
- Final migration
On-premise or cloud-based servers?
Many small and midsize businesses are debating if they should replace their on premise servers or move to the cloud – or maybe a hybrid platform. We can help you determine the best way to go, based on your budget and business needs.
If you are running SQL Server 2005, contact us to discuss next steps to ensure your operations are running safely and smoothly.