Taking a Closer Look
When you install and configure a server operating system, you hope you’ll never have to do it again. It’s inordinately complex and time-consuming. Each server is a unique creation, and each configuration meticulously adapted to a particular use.Any installed drivers, applications and other software components reflect that specialized use. Even individual applications may have a unique set of patches. It’s difficult, if not impossible, to identify each unique configuration and determine how to replicate it on a new OS.
So why should you bother with Windows Server 2008? You’ll still have to replicate your server environment on each server as you replace your old OS. It should take less time, though, with Windows Server 2008. And when you’re done, you’ll have a more secure, more manageable and better performing box, both physically and virtually.
In reality, swapping out your Windows 2000 or Windows 2003 Servers for Windows Server 2008 is only going to be slightly less painful than in the past. The resulting value is real, but in many cases probably not a game-changer. You’ll have to weigh the costs in both dollars and time against the benefits to your organization.
Don’t be surprised if the cost/benefit analysis tells you to start planning for a migration today. In many cases, it will take a year or more to plan and execute, and the return on the initial investment may not come until years later-but you’ll sleep better at night. The question is easier if you’ve reached the end-of-life on Windows NT 4. If so, it’s high time to upgrade.