There’s a lot of interest in ESU as SQL 2012 and Windows Server 2012 versions go end of life during the course of 2023. Unfortunately, the traditional ESU SKU’s are limited to Enterprise agreements, but there is an option for non-EA customers.

Firstly what is ESU?

 

Extended Security Updates for Windows Server include security updates and bulletins rated Product Lifecycle FAQ - Extended Security Updates | Microsoft Learn

 

So my customer doesn’t have an EA – what’s my option?

You can migrate your servers that are on-premises running a version of Windows Server that has reached or is reaching end of extended support to Azure, where you can continue to run them as virtual machines. In Azure you'll stay compliant, become more secure, and add cloud innovation to your work. The benefits of migrating to Azure include:

  • Security updates in Azure.
  • Get Windows Server critical and important security updates for a period of time, included at no additional charge.
  • No-charge upgrades in Azure.
  • Adopt more cloud services as you are ready.
  • By migrating SQL Server to Azure VMs, you get three more years of Windows Server critical security updates, included at no additional charge. You could also modernize your SQL Server to Azure SQL Managed Instance.
  • Benefit from Azure Hybrid Benefit, which means you can leverage existing Windows Server licenses and SQL Server licenses for cloud savings unique to Azure.

 

BREAKING NEWS

M365 on Amazon Workspaces

In the Microsoft Product Terms for August 2023 there has been a significant announcement for anyone using Amazon Workspaces. Customers with the following licenses can install one instance of M365 Apps for Enterprise/Business in Amazon Workspaces, they must run the Enterprise Monthly Channel or Current Channel: Microsoft 365 E3/E5 Microsoft 365 A3/A5 Microsoft 365 Business Premium In addition if those users are also licensed for: Project Plan 3 Project Plan 5 Visio Plan 2 They can also install one instance of those in Amazon Workspaces.

For an overview of the update channels see here: Overview of update channels for Microsoft 365 Apps - Deploy Office | Microsoft Learn

If you need help getting started with Azure, reach out to your Dicker Data Microsoft PDM who can get you in touch with our Azure team. Our Azure team is located in NZ and are here to help support and enable to you move your customers to Azure.