Importance of MS ending support?

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J

JM

We have a Windows 2000 Server DC, with 20 computers. We have been advised
to upgrade to Server 2003 on the basis that MS is ending support.

What is the significance of MS ending support on the s/w we use? And what
specific advantages are there to upgrading to 2003?

Thank you,

wjm
 
In
JM said:
We have a Windows 2000 Server DC, with 20 computers. We have been
advised to upgrade to Server 2003 on the basis that MS is ending
support.

What is the significance of MS ending support on the s/w we use? And
what specific advantages are there to upgrading to 2003?

Thank you,

wjm
Click to expand...

Improved security. Improvments overall with AD functionality, DNS
functionality, and numerous others. I can't recall the end date for 2000
support, but once that is reached, Microsoft won't be offering any security
or any other type of upgrades or hotfixes and the operating system will
become vulnerable to the increasing exploits growing in the industry.

In regards of comparing operating system product life cycle and advancements
to automotive industry advancements, I would say there's a three year
software cycle to something like (my opinion) a 20 or more year difference
with automotive advancements. So it's like saying I would rather drive my
1986 Datsun instead of getting a new 2006 Honda with the improved
technology, safety (increased security), economy, and overall features.
(Note, I don't like Datsuns or Hondas but using them as a comparison example
over the years).

As for 2000/2003, many folks said the same thing about NT4 and 2000. I
realize you have a small network, but if it's any concern, I would upgrade
based on the new feature sets, if not for a more secure operating system if
nothing else, to better protect your users, network and company data.
Firewalls alone don't cut it.

Here's an interesting link to check out, with a "Why to upgrade". I hope you
find it beneficial.

Windows Server 2003 Benefits. Improvements from Windows 2000:
http://www.computerperformance.co.uk/w2k3/W2K3_home.htm

--
Ace

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Ace Fekay, MCSE 2003 & 2000, MCSA 2003 & 2000, MCSE+I, MCT, MVP
Microsoft MVP - Directory Services
Microsoft Certified Trainer

Infinite Diversities in Infinite Combinations
Assimilation Imminent. Resistance is Futile
"Very funny Scotty. Now, beam down my clothes."

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unnecessary energy. - [Me]
 
We have a Windows 2000 Server DC, with 20 computers. We have been advised
to upgrade to Server 2003 on the basis that MS is ending support.

What is the significance of MS ending support on the s/w we use? And what
specific advantages are there to upgrading to 2003?

Thank you,

wjm
Click to expand...

First the facts I gleaned from the microsoft web site.

Mainstream support for Windows 2000 Server and Advanced Server ended
6/30/2005.
Extended support for both will end 7/13/2010.

Mainstream support means some no charge incident support, security update
support, can request non-security hotfixes.
Extended support means paid support, security updates at no cost.

The most important issue is security updates, but I believe that will be
available for Windows 2000 Server until 2010. Note that extended support for
Windows 98 and ME will end 7/11/2006. Security updates are available until
then.

For any upgrade you must weigh the benefits against the costs and risks. To
be honest, there is less difference between w2k and w2k3 than in most cases,
so upgrade is easier. However, most of the advantages of w2k3 are useful to
large organizations with many DC's and sites. I see less reason for small
organizations with limited support and dollars.

Among the issues to research before upgrading:

1. Understand Server Roles.
2. Either accept complex passwords or know how to turn this feature off.
3. Understand Internet Explorer Enhanced Security Features.
4. Understand functional levels.

I believe the easiest way to upgrade is to add a new DC with Windows Server
2003, then later upgrade or replace the w2k machine. If this is not an
option you have to make sure your existing hardware will support w2k3. If
you are not bitten by complex passwords or IE Enhanced Security, you will
see almost no difference.
 
In
First the facts I gleaned from the microsoft web site.

Mainstream support for Windows 2000 Server and Advanced Server ended
6/30/2005.
Extended support for both will end 7/13/2010.

Mainstream support means some no charge incident support, security
update support, can request non-security hotfixes.
Extended support means paid support, security updates at no cost.

The most important issue is security updates, but I believe that will
be available for Windows 2000 Server until 2010. Note that extended
support for Windows 98 and ME will end 7/11/2006. Security updates
are available until then.

For any upgrade you must weigh the benefits against the costs and
risks. To be honest, there is less difference between w2k and w2k3
than in most cases, so upgrade is easier. However, most of the
advantages of w2k3 are useful to large organizations with many DC's
and sites. I see less reason for small organizations with limited
support and dollars.
Among the issues to research before upgrading:

1. Understand Server Roles.
2. Either accept complex passwords or know how to turn this feature
off. 3. Understand Internet Explorer Enhanced Security Features.
4. Understand functional levels.

I believe the easiest way to upgrade is to add a new DC with Windows
Server 2003, then later upgrade or replace the w2k machine. If this
is not an option you have to make sure your existing hardware will
support w2k3. If you are not bitten by complex passwords or IE
Enhanced Security, you will see almost no difference.
Click to expand...

Nicely said.

Ace
 
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