Let's bring out the benefits of the latest version by migrating early before the end of support for Windows Server 2012 / R2 and SQL Server 2012

Enhanced security features in Windows Server 2019

The security risk increases if you continue to use software, especially the OS, whose support has ended and security patches are no longer provided.

"It is dangerous to think that it is okay to continue using an OS that is out of support because we have installed security software," said Hiroshi Shimada, Manager, Cloud Platform Division, NEC.

"Because there is a risk that support for security software may be partially restricted or discontinued on an unsupported OS. Also, security software must prevent attacks with vulnerabilities in unsupported OS. Therefore, we strongly recommend migrating to an OS within the Microsoft support period. "(Mr. Shimada)

The reason for recommending migration of Windows Server OS is not only the negative factor of out of support, but also the positive factor of enhanced security functions in the latest OS. In response to the increasing sophistication of cyber attacks, the Windows Server OS has also undergone various security enhancements.

"The most obvious point is that Windows Server 2016 is equipped with the" Windows Defender Antivirus "function that has high malware detection power as standard, and by making Windows Server 2019, the multi-layered protection by" Windows Defender Exploit Guard "is used. It will be possible, "says Shimada.

Windows Defender Exploit Guard has four features. "Attack Surface Reduction" blocks threats such as suspicious files, malicious files, and scripts to prevent virus intrusion. "Network protection" blocks the process of sending to untrusted hosts / IP addresses and protects them from web-based threats. "Controlling folder access" blocks untrusted processes from accessing protected folders and protects sensitive data. "Exploit Protection" protects systems and applications by providing various functions to mitigate the exploitation of vulnerabilities.

"You can strengthen security just by updating the OS. Even small and medium-sized customers who have a limited investment budget for security measures can get the benefit of strengthening security just by updating the OS." (Mr. Shimada)

In fact, the adoption of Windows Server 2019 is increasing, and "about 3/4 of the OEM version of Windows Server you purchase is Windows Server 2019" (Mr. Shimada).