Microsoft Server is a suite of server software products from Microsoft that provides the platform and tools necessary for businesses to manage and maintain their networks, servers, and applications. With several versions of Microsoft Server available, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your organization. In this article, we will compare the pros and cons of the various versions of Microsoft Server to help you make an informed decision.
Microsoft Server 2019:
Pros:
- Latest features and security updates: Microsoft Server 2019 is the latest version of the software and includes the latest features and security updates.
- Improved performance: Microsoft Server 2019 has improved performance compared to previous versions of the software.
- Hybrid capabilities: Microsoft Server 2019 has hybrid capabilities, allowing organizations to manage their on-premise servers and cloud resources from a single platform.
- Long-term support: Microsoft Server 2019 has long-term support, with mainstream support ending in October 2023 and extended support ending in October 2028.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost: The cost of Microsoft Server 2019 can be higher compared to previous versions of the software.
- More complex to manage: Microsoft Server 2019 has more advanced features and functionality, making it more complex to manage and maintain compared to previous versions.
- Requires updated hardware: Microsoft Server 2019 requires updated hardware, which can add to the cost of upgrading to the latest version.
Microsoft Server 2016:
Pros:
- Familiar interface: Microsoft Server 2016 has a familiar interface, making it easier for organizations that have already used previous versions of the software to upgrade.
- Good balance of features and simplicity: Microsoft Server 2016 has a good balance of features and functionality, making it easier to manage and maintain compared to more recent versions of the software.
Cons:
- No longer receives updates: Microsoft Server 2016 is an older version of the software and no longer receives updates, which means that organizations using this version may be vulnerable to security threats.
- Limited hybrid capabilities: Microsoft Server 2016 has limited hybrid capabilities compared to more recent versions of the software, making it more difficult to manage both on-premise and cloud resources.
Microsoft Server 2012 R2:
Pros:
- Familiar interface: Microsoft Server 2012 R2 has a familiar interface, making it easier for organizations that have already used previous versions of the software to upgrade.
- Low upfront cost: Microsoft Server 2012 R2 is an older version of the software, making it more affordable compared to more recent versions.
Cons:
- No longer receives updates: Microsoft Server 2012 R2 is an older version of the software and no longer receives updates, which means that organizations using this version may be vulnerable to security threats.
- Limited hybrid capabilities: Microsoft Server 2012 R2 has limited hybrid capabilities compared to more recent versions of the software, making it more difficult to manage both on-premise and cloud resources.
- Outdated software: Microsoft Server 2012 R2 is an older version of the software and may not have all of the features and functionality of more recent versions.
In conclusion, each version of Microsoft Server has its own pros and cons, and the right choice depends on the specific needs and budget of the organization. Microsoft Server 2019 has the latest features and security updates, but has a higher upfront cost and is more complex to manage.
Microsoft Server 2016 and 2012 R2 have a good balance of features and simplicity, but are older versions of the software and may not have the same level of security and hybrid capabilities as more recent versions. Consider your specific needs and budget when choosing the right version of Microsoft Server for your organization.
