Keep customers secure on their path to cloud migration with Extended Security Updates

Microsoft support for SQL Server 2012, including security updates, ended in July 2022, leaving customers exposed to security risks and compliance concerns. As a Microsoft partner, you can help ensure that their organizations are protected and their infrastructures are secure.

SMBs still running SQL Server 2012 can save money and keep their businesses safe by migrating to Azure. Learn how you can help secure your customers’ workloads during the transition, whether they’re ready to upgrade now or need more time.

Secure now, update when ready

End of support (EOS) means regular security updates will no longer be provided. With cyberattacks becoming more sophisticated and frequent, running apps and data on unsupported versions can create significant security and compliance risks. It is highly recommended that customers upgrade to the most current versions for better performance, efficiency, and regular security updates.

Customers that migrate applications and SQL Server databases to Azure Virtual Machines get free Extended Security Updates for three years after end of support, only in Azure. Customers can combine this with Azure Hybrid Benefit by using existing on-premises SQL Server and Windows Server licenses on the cloud at no additional cost.

For customers who need more time, we’re announcing Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for SQL Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2. This additional extended servicing option will help secure workloads for three more years after the end of support deadline. Also, one additional year of ESUs is available for Windows Server and SQL Server 2008 and 2008 R2, only on Azure.

Get started

Make sure you’re prepared before reaching out to customers still running SQL Server 2012. Take these steps to get started:

• Use CloudAscent in Partner Center to identify existing SMB customers who might be at risk of losing security updates.
• Watch the Path to Azure Cloud Growth webinar for a comprehensive overview of the Azure Cloud market opportunity, along with resources for migrating customers to Azure.
• Get up to speed with the Windows Server and SQL Server End of Support Collection, including the Play-in-a-Box (PiB), which explains and provides resources for all Windows Server and SQL Server solution plays to help partners ready their staff, create demand, and sell.
• Launch a broad-reach digital Azure migration campaign. The Digital Marketing Content OnDemand platform provides partners with an easy-to-execute, customizable digital campaign to share with their customers the value of migrating to Azure.

Attend the October 25 webinar:
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Tags: Azure Hybrid Benefit, CloudAscent, End of Support, EOS, SQL Server 2012, tag-SMB