[1]Legal firms could compromise the security of their clients’ data and their professional reputation unless they migrate from Windows Server 2003 to an alternative platform, warns leading software provider, Advanced Legal [2]. Windows Server 2003 is nearing end-of-life and Microsoft will officially withdraw support for the server operating system in July 2015.
Firms which handle large volumes of data, are involved in high-value litigation or possess valuable information will be increasingly susceptible to malicious cyber attacks by using unsupported hardware and software that is hosted on platforms such as Windows Server 2003.
Doug Hargrove, managing director, Advanced Legal comments, “Windows Server 2003 is still widely used in the legal sector and many firms have yet to formulate alternative migration plans. Failure to upgrade to a modern server infrastructure could place confidential data at greater risk from hackers and malware attacks, potentially with major implications.”
From 14 July 2015, Microsoft will no longer be issuing security patches or updates for Windows Server 2003. This could impact applications such as Practice Management (PCMS), Mail Server (Exchange) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems which are vital to ensuring the smooth running of legal firms day-to-day operations.
Hargrove continues, “Now is a good opportunity to evaluate existing IT platforms and take advantage of cost savings through better value support options. Upgrading your infrastructure, taking advantage of virtualisation technology or even migrating solutions to the cloud, can all offer flexible and scalable ways to improve operational efficiencies and reduce data security risks to ensure business continuity.
“There are numerous choices available but it is essential that legal firms ensure their business and IT strategies are aligned. Partnering with experienced managed service providers can help them choose secure, resilient and high-performance solutions that are tailored to their needs to support future growth and safeguard vital client information.”
Advanced provides a comprehensive range of IT managed services, from desktop support through to a complete infrastructure as a service (IaaS) solution. The company also provides security and data management and business intelligence consultancy services.
Advanced Legal is an Advanced Computer Software Group company. The Group recently won Tech Company of the Year in the prestigious UK Tech Awards 2014 and ranked in the Deloitte UK Technology Fast 50, which recognises the 50 fastest growing technology companies in the UK.