The Challenge
The company, a manufacturer of piping systems, had an existing on-premises Windows Server 2012 that was reaching end-of-life, lacking security updates and hindering performance for users working with large files.
Additionally, the network infrastructure limited data transfer speeds, creating delays in production times. They needed a prompt solution and that’s where they contacted us for help.
The Solution
Upgrading the On-Premises Windows Server 2012 to 2022
Step 1 – Backup: Implemented the 3-2-1 Backup Methodology
3 Copies: Created 3 copies of the critical data (server OS, applications, user files)
2 Media Types: Stored backups on two different media types (e.g., local storage and cloud storage)
1 Offsite Copy: Kept one copy offsite for disaster recovery
The process of upgrading the on-premises Windows Server 2012 involved several critical steps to ensure a smooth transition while minimizing risks and maximizing performance gains. Firstly, a robust backup strategy was implemented following the 3-2-1 methodology.
This involved creating three copies of crucial data including the server operating system, applications, and user files.
These copies were stored on two different media types such as local storage and cloud storage, with one copy kept offsite for disaster recovery purposes.
This approach ensured data redundancy and resilience against potential data loss scenarios, providing a safety net during the OS upgrade.
Step 2 – Upgrade Path Windows Server 2012 r2 to 2022
Since an in-place upgrade from Windows Server 2012 to 2022 isn’t supported, a two-step approach was taken:
Upgraded to Windows Server 2016 first
Then upgraded from 2016 to Windows Server 2022
Following the backup phase, a meticulous upgrade path was devised since an in-place upgrade from Windows Server 2012 to 2022 wasn’t supported.
The chosen approach involved upgrading to Windows Server 2016 first, before subsequently upgrading to Windows Server 2022. Additionally, physical hardware enhancements were made to the server infrastructure by adding a 10 Gigabit Ethernet network interface card (NIC) to facilitate faster data transfer speeds.
Step 3 – Upgrading User Devices
Hardware Upgrade: Added a 10GbE network interface card (NIC) to the server for faster data transfer speeds.
Ensured all user workstations were equipped with 10GbE NICs to match the server’s capabilities.
Verified compatibility of applications used for working with large files with Windows Server 2022.
User devices were upgraded to match the new server capabilities by ensuring they were equipped with compatible 10GbE NICs.
Application compatibility checks were also performed to verify that the software used for working with large files would seamlessly integrate with the new Windows Server 2022 environment.
By meticulously following these steps, the upgrade process was executed smoothly, resulting in enhanced performance, improved security, and increased efficiency for the organization’s workflows.
The Results
Key Results Achieved
Improved Security
Windows Server 2022 offers the latest security features and ongoing updates.
Enhanced Performance
10GbE network significantly reduces transfer times for large files.
Increased Efficiency
Streamlined workflows for design and engineering teams.
Disaster Recovery
The 3-2-1 backup methodology ensures data availability in case of incidents.
The server upgrade to Windows Server 2022 brought significant improvements in various aspects crucial for the organization’s operations:
Firstly, in terms of security, the migration to Windows Server 2022 provided access to the latest security features and ongoing updates offered by the operating system upgrade.
This ensured that the organization’s infrastructure was better equipped to defend against emerging threats and vulnerabilities, thereby bolstering its overall security posture.
The higher transfer speeds facilitated by the 10GbE network led to reduced transfer times for large files, enabling design and engineering teams to access, manipulate, and share their work more efficiently.
Additionally, the streamlined workflows resulting from the server upgrade contributed to increased efficiency across the organization, particularly for design and engineering teams.
Lessons Learned
Planning is Key
Careful planning with proper backups and hardware compatibility checks minimized downtime during the upgrade process.
Phased Approach
Upgrading the server in two steps (2012 to 2016, then 2016 to 2022) ensured a smoother transition.
User Readiness
Verifying application compatibility on user devices prevented post-upgrade disruptions.
This case study demonstrates how upgrading an on-premises server infrastructure with proper backups and network enhancements can significantly improve performance and security, especially for businesses working with large datasets.
Bonus Tips: Post Upgrade Optimization for Windows 2022 Server
Once the upgrade process concludes, it’s crucial to undertake a series of steps to guarantee the smooth functioning of your system and capitalize on the new features and tools offered by Windows Server 2022.
Firstly, validate the success of the Windows upgrade by ensuring that all essential programs and services are operating as expected. This may require you to check for any Windows update or install required drivers and software components.
Additionally, it’s prudent to update any regularly used applications or tools to ensure compatibility with the new operating system upgrade and avoid having any incompatible applications. Contacting the developers of these applications to inquire about Windows update or patches tailored for Windows Server 2022 can be beneficial.
Lastly, verify that all users have appropriate access and permissions to use the new operating system. This might involve configuring new user accounts or adjusting permissions for existing ones to align with any system modifications.
By diligently completing these post-upgrade tasks, you can optimize your business is making the best use of the advanced features and tools provided by Windows Server 2022.
Upgrade Windows Server with Wingman Solutions
Ready to upgrade your Microsoft Windows server infrastructure for improved performance and security? Contact us today to discuss how we can help optimize your IT environment for maximum efficiency and reliability.
FAQs about Upgrade Windows Server 2012 to 2022
Can you upgrade from Windows Server 2012 to 2022?
Yes, you can upgrade from Windows Server 2012 to 2022. However, it’s not a direct upgrade path. You would need to perform a two-step upgrade process, first upgrading to Windows Server 2016 and then to Windows Server 2022.
What are the optimal requirements for Windows Server 2022?
The optimal requirements for Windows Server 2022 include:
- A 64-bit processor with a minimum speed of 1.4 GHz.
- At least 512 MB of RAM for core installation or 2 GB for desktop experience installations.
- A minimum of 32 GB of storage space.
- A Gigabit Ethernet adapter with at least 1 Gbps throughput.
- A trusted platform module (TPM) version 2.0 for security features.
- UEFI 2.3.1c-based system and firmware that supports secure boot.
What is the difference between in-place upgrade vs migration upgrade?
An in-place upgrade involves updating the current operating system to a newer version while maintaining the same physical hardware and all the server roles, settings, and data. It’s like installing the new OS version over the old one on the same server.
A migration upgrade, on the other hand, involves moving server roles, settings, and data from one server to another that already has a later version of the OS installed. This method is often used when moving to a new hardware platform or when in-place upgrades are not possible or recommended.
How to migrate Active Directory from Windows Server 2012 to 2022?
Preparation: Ensure your servers meet the minimum requirements for the migration and have a valid product key for Windows Server 2022. Collect diagnostic information using PowerShell commands and back up your server operating system, apps, and virtual machine.
Installation Media: Obtain the setup media for Windows Server 2022.
Setup Wizard: Navigate to the Windows Server setup media using File Explorer and run setup.exe. Follow the setup wizard, enter your product key, and select the edition of Windows Server 2022 you want to install.
Upgrade: Choose to perform an upgrade, keeping personal files and apps intact. Allow the setup to download updates if desired, review and accept the license terms, and proceed with the installation.
Verification: After the upgrade is complete, verify the success of the migration by checking the version and edition of Windows Server using PowerShell. Ensure that all applications are running as expected and that client connections are successful.
