You can upgrade your 2012 Windows server in just a few days! The safest option is migration where you move your data and settings over by installing a version of Windows Server on another device.
The easiest way is in-place upgrading where you install a newer version onto the same hardware directly. Another way which could give more flexibility is involving moving all your stuff to the cloud, using cloud services like Azure.
Step 1: Backup Your Data
Before you embark on any migration, it's essential to safeguard your data with thorough backups. Use a reliable backup solution to create a complete backup of your server's data, configurations, and settings. This will serve as a safety net in case anything goes wrong during the migration.
Step 2: Evaluate Your Current System
An essential step in migration is understanding your current environment. Take inventory of the following:
Hardware and software: Make a list of your server hardware, including specifications, and the software and services running on Windows Server 2012. This will help you plan for hardware upgrades if necessary and ensure software compatibility with the new server version.
Active Directory: If your Windows Server 2012 is a domain controller, you will need to plan for Active Directory migration. Ensure that your Active Directory is healthy and functioning correctly.
Dependencies: Identify any dependencies on your Windows Server 2012, such as specific applications or services that rely on it. Make a list of these dependencies to address during the migration.
Step 3: Choose the New Server Version
Decide whether you want to migrate to Windows Server 2019 or a newer version like Windows Server 2022, depending on your specific requirements and the support lifecycle. Ensure that your chosen version is compatible with your hardware and software.
Step 4: Install the New Server
Set up your new server, install the chosen Windows Server version, and configure it according to your organization's needs. Make sure to configure it to match the network settings, roles, and features of your old server.
Step 5: Data Migration
There are various methods for migrating data, and the choice depends on the size and complexity of your environment. Here are some common methods:
Windows Server Migration Tools: Microsoft provides a set of tools that can assist in migrating roles, features, and data from one server to another. This is particularly helpful when moving roles such as Active Directory, DHCP, DNS, and file services.
Robocopy: For file server data, Robocopy is a reliable command-line tool that can copy files and directories efficiently. It's especially useful for large file transfers.
Storage Migration Service (SMS): Windows Server 2019 and later versions come with SMS, a dedicated tool for migrating data between servers. It can streamline the migration process and is ideal for complex environments.
Third-party Migration Tools: Depending on your specific needs, third-party migration tools can simplify the process and offer additional features.
Step 6: Application and Service Migration
For applications and services, plan their migration carefully. Depending on your software, you may need to reinstall or reconfigure certain applications to ensure they run smoothly on the new server. Test thoroughly to ensure all your critical applications and services function as expected.
Step 7: Update DNS and Active Directory
If you're migrating Active Directory, update DNS records and ensure that the new server is properly configured as a domain controller. This is a critical step to maintain domain functionality.
Step 8: Testing
After migrating your data and services, it's crucial to conduct extensive testing to ensure everything is working as expected. Test the new server thoroughly and, if possible, perform a limited production test before transitioning entirely.
Step 9: Transition and Decommission
Once you're confident that the new server is operating correctly, schedule a downtime window to transition your services. Update DNS records and inform users of any necessary changes. After a successful transition, you can decommission the old server.
Migrating your data from Windows Server 2012 to a newer version is a complex process, but with careful planning and execution, it can be a smooth transition. Take your time to evaluate your current environment, choose the right version, and use the appropriate migration tools. Additionally, always have contingency plans in place to address unexpected issues. By following these steps, you can ensure that your organization continues to operate efficiently and securely with an updated server infrastructure.
Further reading
The end of Windows Server 2012 technical support
Exploring RAID data recovery in Windows 10
The importance of upgrading your operating system