How to Upgrade Windows Server?

Servers consist of two components – hardware and software, both of which must be updated and maintained regularly for optimum performance.

Why Should You Upgrade Your Windows Server?

A newer version of a product is much more refined than its predecessor, and this applies to software too. If a business has an older version of Windows Server, upgrading it to the latest version will significantly improve operations, productivity, and security. Though the latest software releases can sometimes contain bugs, these will be ironed out if you have IT professionals looking after your systems.

An alternative option is to upgrade the old software to a recent, but not the latest release. For example, if a business is using the Windows Server 2012 version, it can be upgraded to the Windows Server 2016 or the 2019 version instead of directly going for the 2022 edition. This is an option available to you.

Upgrading your Windows server has other benefits such as:

How to Upgrade Windows Server

  • Cost-effective:

    Continuing to maintain out-of-date hardware can lead to an ever-increasing warranty renewal cost or unexpected costs should the equipment fail. Replacing an out-of-date server with new hardware or a cloud-based solution will be more cost-effective and reduce the risk for the business.

  • Cyber Security:

    Newer software comes with better in-built security, making it much more resilient and crucial for businesses. Out-of-date server operating systems may no longer be supported by the vendor and is therefore a considerable risk.

  • Compatibility:

    Software companies usually expire support for older software after a certain period. Most application manufacturers will also stop making apps for the particular software once it’s outdated.

Steps to Upgrade Your Windows Server

Upgrading a Windows server should only be carried out by IT professionals. Many businesses across Australia choose to hire third-party services for their IT needs, which include server maintenance and updates. Businesses looking for reliable Windows server upgrades in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, or any other city should always seek out the services of certified Windows server management providers. This eliminates the risk of poor workmanship and compromised software.

Windows server upgrades can be conducted on a business’ system to bring it up to date with the latest versions. However, this must be carefully planned to avoid any disruption to the business.  One constraint that must also be considered – if you wish to upgrade your Windows server to a version later than the Windows Server 2012 R2, a sequential upgrade may be performed, i.e. you must first upgrade to Windows Server 2012 R2, followed by the desired version.

The steps to upgrade a Windows server can be categorised into three steps:

  1. Planning the upgrade
  2. Performing the upgrade
  3. Troubleshooting any issues

  1. Planning the upgrade

    Planning the Windows server upgrade allows you to consider all your options and gather the necessary resources required to accomplish it. This is a good time to consider all alternatives before committing to the process. The downtime required for an upgrade needs to be taken into account as well as the risk of compatibility issues. Ensure that the system meets the new software’s requirements, as failure to do so can result in a botched upgrade. Moreover, it’s best to keep your Windows product key handy as it will be needed during the process.

  1. Performing the upgrade

    Before starting the process, it is recommended to create a full backup of the current system. This may prove to be a lifesaver in case anything goes wrong during the upgrade and you need to revert to the old system.

    Before proceeding with the upgrade, ensure that you have confirmed there is a backup of the server, services, configuration, and company file that reside on the server that is being upgraded.

    Any server upgrade should be performed by an IT professional with the skills and experience to ensure that the upgrade is successful and performed with minimum disruption to the business.

  1. Troubleshooting any issues

    Before beginning your work on the new server, it is a good idea to run a troubleshooting program to identify and resolve any issues. Once it is confirmed that the upgrade has been completed successfully, it will be safe to use.

Upgrading Your Windows Server

A Windows server that is updated and performs optimally is an asset to any organisation. A well-maintained server facilitates smooth workflow, enhancing productivity. Sharing of resources becomes easier and more secure allowing a business to focus on parameters that matter the most, such as customer experience and value addition. Businesses that want to perform a Windows server upgrade in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, or any other Australian city can do so with ease.

MSP Corporation is one of the most reliable windows server management providers in Australia. We offer comprehensive Windows server management services that include server updates, backups, maintenance, and monitoring. Our team is among those professionals certified to work with Windows products and we deliver top-notch best practice service every single time.

Server upgrades are a time-consuming process that requires significant planning. Use our professional IT services to upgrade your Windows server and minimise your risk exposure. Call our IT Consultant today on 1300 554 404 and discuss your server requirements. You can also email us your queries at sales@mspcorp.com.au