A Microsoft Exchange Server Migration often proves to be a lot more challenging than most clients realize, particularly if they have waited nearly a decade to make the switch. When it comes to making a Microsoft Exchange Server Migration to upgrade to the latest available technology, many companies believe that such a transition is as easy as pushing in button. In truth, if your company has waited to update and become comfortable in the old system, a Microsoft Exchange Server Migration often becomes a multi-step process that includes the re-training of your staff.

Important Note – The Microsoft Exchange Server 2003, Outlook 2003, Windows XP, Exchange 2010 SP2 and Windows Server 2003 will no longer be  eligible for tech or updates support from Microsoft. All the lifecycles of these Microsoft products end in early April of 2015, except for Windows Server 2003 that ends in the middle of July 2015 .

1. Outlook 2003 will transition out of extended support on 8th of April 2014
2. Exchange Server 2003will transition out of extended support on 8th of April 2014
3. Windows XP will transition out of extended support on 8th of April 2014
4. Exchange 2010 SP2 will transition out of support on 8th April 2014
5. Windows Server 2003will transition out of extended support on 14th of July 2015

The Challenge of a Microsoft Exchange Server Migration

At the same time, such a switch opens up new doors by expanding your technological capabilities and providing your company with the latest Microsoft Exchange Server’s innovations and tools. Zephyr Networks has the staff and the technological know-how to effectively help your company with a Microsoft Exchange Server Migration without interrupting your daily business while ensuring the safety of your data, and continuity for your employees. Recently, we helped a new client make a Microsoft Exchange Server Migration that they desperately needed since it had been over a decade since their last update.

The challenge with a Microsoft Exchange Server Migration when so much time has passed is the multiple steps needed in the process. Since the company was still operating with the 2003 version of the Microsoft Exchange Server, they had missed several versions. In fact, Microsoft Exchange 2003 is no longer supported by Microsoft. Microsoft almost takes for granted that a company, at the very least, has updated to the 2007 Microsoft Exchange Server version. But the reality is many companies are still using Exchange Server 2003.

Two-Step Migration To The 2013 Microsoft Exchange Server

In order to protect the ongoing fluidity of the company’s email processes while keeping the past data secure, Zephyr Networks needed to take a two-step approach to the migration process. First, their present 2003 Microsoft Exchange Server was migrated to the 2007 Microsoft Exchange Server version. Although the staff was given information about this initial migration, it was done during downtime when there was less demand on the system. In the second step, Zephyr Networks was able to bypass the 2010 Microsoft Exchange Server update and migrate directly to the latest 2013 Microsoft Exchange Server. By making a two-step leap, although it took more time, it ensured the integrity of the existing system and data while guaranteeing a clean Microsoft Exchange Server Migration to the latest version. End users saw little change in their daily activities but were quickly able to use the enhanced capabilities.

Advantage of Microsoft Exchange Server Migration to 2013

After the Microsoft Exchange Server Migration, Zephyr Networks helped train the company’s employees in the effective use of the new system. Beyond on-the-site training, we provided access to the best online tutorials and training manuals provided by Microsoft. In addition, if any problem came up after the Microsoft Exchange Server Migration, we were one phone call away from a solution.

On the Microsoft website, the advantages of making a Microsoft Exchange Server Migration to the 2013 version are clearly laid out. Unlike the 2003 version, the latest Exchange lets a company tailor their solution based on their unique needs, ensuring that their communications are always available in light of the rise of mobile technologies. While protecting a company with the latest Microsoft safeguard, the 2013 Microsoft Exchange Server increases productivity by helping employees manage increasing volumes of communications across multiple devices and work together more effectively as teams.

Zephyr Networks Can Help Your Company

If your company already has been using the Microsoft Exchange Server system, Zephyr Networks can help you with any Microsoft Exchange Server Migration needs while address any other information technology issues at hand. Whether you want to move to the private cloud or improve your network security, we can help. If you are not using Microsoft Exchange Server already, we also can offer a variety of options that might be better suited for your business needs, saving you both time and money. To find out how Zephyr Networks can help your company, please call (800) 884-7559 today for a free consultation with one of our information technology and networking support experts.