Server 2008/SQL2008 Update Home Page

3 min

On January 14, 2020 Microsoft ended its support for Windows Server 2008/2008R2, which means the server no longer receives operating system (OS) updates. While the OS will continue functioning in an unsupported state, it is  more susceptible to security vulnerabilities.

The PCI Security Council mandates that customers use a system maintained by the manufacturer. Because Windows Server 2008 is unsupported, stores could face financial repercussions if a security incident occurs. 

Along with Server 2008, on July 9, 2019, Microsoft ended support for 2019 SQL 2008/2008R2.  Similar to Server 2008, SQL will continue to function in an unsupported state, but without updates SQL is more susceptible to security vulnerabilities. 

What actions need to be taken?

To ensure sensitive information is protected and your infrastructure is secure, it’s critical to upgrade to Microsoft Windows Server 2016 or 2019 and SQL 2016 as soon as possible.

  • With the help of your IT professionals, identify the server OS you are using.

  • If you are running Server 2008, engage with the PrismRBS team as soon as possible to begin necessary preparations to upgrade. Email implementations@prismrbs.com with answers to the following questions:

    • Are you upgrading to a new physical or virtual server?

    • Identify the number of servers involved. ICS or POS?

    • Identify a preferred two-week period to have remote access to the server and complete the install. Please note, the store must be closed during the actual migration process which happens last. Dates will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.

    • Who are the main points-of-contact, including a primary contact and technical contact?

  • Review and authorize the Scope of Work provided by the implementations team.

What are my server options?

A virtual machine can be set up by your campus IT resources, or you may purchase a physical server through PrismRBS. PrismRBS can supply the necessary requirements for both virtual and physical servers. Email sales@prismrbs.com with inquiries or questions.

What are the Specs required for the server?

VM Server Specs for New Installation

PROCESSORS:

Small/Medium Back Office (5-15 Clients) 4 cores @ 2GHz

Large Back Office (15+ clients) 6 cores @ 2GHz

RAM: Minimum / Suggested

Small Back Office (1-5 clients) 8GB / 16GB

Medium (6-10 clients) 12GB / 24 GB

Large (10+ clients) 32GB / 64GB

Drives: Sizes and Labels.

Drive Label Size

C: OS 80GB OS and Updates only (add space for other Utilities you plan to install)

E: Bin 20GB SQL Binaries

F: UsrDB 100GB Live DataBases and Backups

G: TmpDB 20GB Temporary / Transaction DBs

H: UsrLog 15GB Logs for Live DBs

I: TmpLog 15GB Logs for Temporary DBs


NOTES: If these specs are for a replacement server or upgrade, we recommend 150% of your database size for RAM, assuming it’s not less than the minimum. Therefore, a 10GB Database needs 15GB (round to 16GB). The drive sizes are accurate unless you wish to add extra software to the C:\, then increase it by 40GB

What about SQL end-of-life?

If you are a participant in the Microsoft ISV program, it includes SQL server as part of your PrismCore license. There is no additional fee for the program, and when we do a server swap, we will install SQL 2016 if the OS supports it. If your OS does not support it, we will need to explore alternative hardware enhancements.

Please contact sales@prismrbs.com with questions and inquiries.

  • Why this needs to happen, overview and timing 

  • Link to confluence page with details

    • Actions to take, deadlines, implications

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