We are pleased to unveil the general availability of Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2, powered by Azure Arc. As the support for Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 approaches its conclusion on October 10, 2023, ESUs ensure that businesses utilizing Windows Server 2012, whether on-premises or on other cloud platforms, receive an additional three years of vital security updates from Microsoft, fortifying their end-of-life infrastructure.
Why Opt for Windows Server 2012 ESUs via Azure Arc?
Azure Arc-enhanced Windows Server 2012 ESUs offer clients a myriad of financial, operational, and security advantages over the conventional Windows Server 2012 ESUs obtained through Volume Licensing:
Flexible Monthly Payments: No initial yearly obligations. Clients only pay for what they require, with the liberty to deactivate ESU licenses throughout the year as they transition and upgrade workloads to Azure.
Azure-centric Billing: As a service billed through Azure, clients can reduce the count of WS2012 ESUs via Azure Arc from their MACC, and avail Azure Consumption Discounting (ACD) for cost reductions.
Effortless Implementation: Azure Arc effortlessly identifies and lists all of the client’s Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 servers. With a straightforward point-and-click registration, the annual MAK key deployment becomes obsolete.
Licensing Versatility: Clients can interchangeably use Standard and Datacenter licenses, as well as virtual and physical core models, negating the need to align SKUs with their base host.
Azure’s Superior Management: Clients gain complimentary access to tools like Azure Update Manager, Azure Machine Configuration, and Azure Change Tracking and Inventory (AMA-based) for their Azure Arc-integrated servers enrolled in WS2012 ESUs.
Enrolling in Windows Server 2012 ESUs via Azure Arc: A Simplified Guide
Embarking on this advantageous journey involves three primary steps:
Onboarding: Initiate by integrating your Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 systems with Azure Arc. Deploy the Connected Machine agent on your servers using tools like Configuration Manager, PowerShell, or Group Policy. Multiple networking alternatives are available, including public endpoints, proxy connectivity, and private links.
Licensing Provision: Procure Windows Server 2012 Extended Security Update licenses, choosing between Standard or Datacenter editions and determining the core count (virtual or physical). Adjustments to the core count associated with a license are permissible, as are license activations and deactivations. Note that billing for these licenses will begin post the End of Support date on October 10, 2023. The cost for Extended Security Updates is equivalent to the full license price for Windows Server 2012/2012 R2. This phase necessitates compliance with the Software Assurance and licensing prerequisites for ESUs.
License Linking: It’s imperative to associate your Windows Server 2012 Extended Security Update licenses with your Azure Arc-integrated servers to register the systems for ESUs. Annual re-enrollment or MAK Key management is not required. Clients retain the autonomy to select any primary or tertiary patching solution to obtain the Windows Server 2012 ESU OS patches. To bolster the security of their end-of-support infrastructure, clients can also leverage Azure services such as Microsoft Defender for Cloud and Microsoft Sentinel.
By harnessing the power of Azure Arc for your Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 systems, you’re not only ensuring extended security but also positioning your business for a future of streamlined operations and enhanced capabilities.
Get in Touch!
Are you ready to supercharge your hybrid cloud strategy? We’re here to help. Email us at sales@hcistacksservices.com or tony@hcistacksservices.com to discuss how this powerful technology can benefit your business.