It is no secret that Microsoft Windows Server 2003 is reaching its end of support on July 15, 2015. After that date Microsoft will no longer provide fixes, updates, or technical assistance. Also, and very importantly, remember that end of support means no more security updates either.  So, what should you do? Well, let's take a look at what Cisco can offer up here!

Benefits to Migrating to Windows Server 2012 R2?

By migrating to Windows Server 2012 R2, you can reduce IT costs, improve service delivery, and avoid the challenges associated with maintaining a legacy platform.

• Its Time to Modernize IT
  • Modernize your application infrastructure with Cisco and Microsoft. With Windows Server 2012 R2 and System Center 2012 R2, combined with Cisco UCS, Cisco Nexus, and Hyper V, you can successfully virtualize, automate, and manage both physical and virtual environments.
• Make Economically Sound Decisions
  • We can help you lower operating costs, reduce CapEx spending, and improve your business units' efficiency. A Microsoft Private Cloud solution on Cisco delivers:
    • 87% reduction in provisioning times
    • 77% reduction in cabling
    • 77% reduction of ongoing management costs
    • 53% reduction in power and cooling costs.
• As always, Simplify IT is best
  • By implementing a single Microsoft and Cisco platform, you will see the difference in improved compliance, security, and reliability across your enterprise.

Check out our infographic to see why you shouldModernize Your Data Center with Cisco UCS and Windows Server 2012 R2 .

Why Cisco and Microsoft?

You might ask yourself, "Why should I choose Cisco and Microsoft?" The answer is straightforward. If you are looking for operational simplicity, an integrated operating model between UCS and Windows Server, secure and scalable environment then Cisco and Microsoft have the single platform you need.

• Save Time and Simplify
  • As an integrated infrastructure, Cisco UCS configures and manages your infrastructure with an open and unified management framework, which saves administrators' time and simplify deployment of applications.
• Choice of Storage Partners
  • UCS Integrated infrastructure also provides multiple storage options for customers to meet their needs. Cisco offers validated designs with storage partners such as EMC and NetApp.
• Advance Networking for Microsoft Environments
  • Cisco Nexus 1000V integration with System Center Virtual Machine Manager (SCVMM) 2012 SP1 and Windows Server 2012 Hyper-V Extensible Switch automate communication between network and server administrators.

Don't Take My Word for it...

In Microsoft Executive Brad Anderson's video, he said because of exceptional UCS operational model and our joint R&D investment, UCS has become such a great operating environment for Windows Server, Hyper-V, System Center, and Microsoft PowerShell.

https://youtu.be/DMrBy_r2WwI

OK, so now that you know why it is a good time to modernize your datacenter. To learn how to get started check out Cisco's offers for migration: www.cisco.com/go/ucsws2003. Also, take advantage of special UCS pricing opportunities and Cisco Capital offers as you migrate to Windows Server 2012 R2. Contact your local Cisco partner or representative for details.