Microsoft confirms that the on-premises ESU offer for Windows Server and SQL Server 2008 (R2) will end after the 3-year term. Like the 2008 (R2) offering, free Extended Security Updates will be available for customers on Azure. Microsoft has now released the details of the extended security updates for version 2012 (R2) and Dynamics AX 2009-2012 (R2): ESU is available through Enterprise Volume Licensing contracts and is aligned to the associated server core licensing model.Īfter the introduction of ESU for Windows Server 2008 (R2) and SQL Server 2008 (R2), it makes sense a similar program would be developed for the 2012 (R2) version. There is an option to receive security updates past the end of support at a cost: the Extended Security Update (ESU) program. For SQL Server 2012 the extended support period is already ending July 12, 2022. The extended support for Windows Server 20 R2 is ending on October 10, 2023. This could cause security and compliance issues and expose you to security risks. Neither for your still valid perpetual licenses nor for your (subscription) licenses covered by maintenance (Software Assurance). That means after this 10-year period, you will no longer receive free critical security updates from Microsoft.

Microsoft standard Lifecycle Policy offers 10 years of support:

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