"To Upgrade or Not Upgrade? That is the Question."

By now, every one has heard the news and seen the hype about Microsoft's worldwide launch of Windows Server 2008 on February 27 in Los Angeles. This next generation of Microsoft's Windows operating system promises to provide security and ease of management while also placing emphasis on virtualization and Terminal Services. With many anticipating this forthcoming product launch, IT management is forced to make the decision - "To Upgrade or Not Upgrade?" Let's face it - whenever Microsoft launches a new product, it's a big deal in the IT world. Take a look at Microsoft Vista as an example. While those waited anxiously for its arrival in 2006, many were disappointed with its lack of performance, reliability and stability. As Microsoft continues to release product updates in response to customer complaints, they hope to get most of these issues ironed out and turn the attention towards Windows 2008. There are many reasons why I would recommend you not upgrade to Windows 2008, at least not in the first year. Much of this is dependent upon your existing hardware, budget, time for upgrading the system and training, and the nature of the software you are currently using. Some reasons to consider postponing your system upgrade are the following: New Product Bugs Regardless of if you're Microsoft or not, there's bound to be some hidden "bugs" with a new product such as this. Give the product time to grow and learn more about its performance by researching feedback from others. Compatibility Issues - Hardware & Software If your company's current computers do not meet the Windows 2008 requirements you would then need to be prepared to purchase new computers, as well. This would be an added investment in upgrading your hardware Another compatibility issue to consider is that older software programs may not work with the Windows 2008 system. This can also affect your anti-virus programs which may not be fully supported by the new operating system. No Issues with Current System Also known as the, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" scenario. As long as your keep your updates current, there's no reason to buy into the hype of Windows 2008. If your current system is operating with no problems while also providing you with the results you need, why spend the money upgrading your entire system? Another thing to consider is you may not want to lose the features you have with your current Windows operating system. While IT management knows their company's infrastructure needs to be as reliable and flexible as possible, they also know it's not always a good decision to quickly upgrade to a new operating system without knowing all of the potential issues which could place a negative impact on your entire operation - not to mention a rather costly one, as well. Delaying the purchase of Microsoft Windows 2008 may be well worth the wait in the long run. About Thomas Burns and INS Thomas Burns is the founder of Intelligent Network Services, Inc. (INS), a San Francisco Bay Area IT support company that caters to small to mid-sized companies in designing and maintaining their IT systems to ensure their day to day business operations are not interrupted. Part of the service they provide to clients is the installation and monitoring of remote connectivity systems and security systems. For more information, visit www.intelligentns.com, or call 408.260.1601.

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About Thomas Burns and INS Thomas Burns is the founder of Intelligent Network Services, Inc. (INS), a San Francisco Bay Area IT support company that caters to small to mid-sized companies in designing and maintaining their IT systems to ensure their day to day business operations are not interrupted. Part of the service they provide to clients is the installation and monitoring of remote connectivity systems and security systems. For more information, visit www.intelligentns.com , or call 408.260.1601.

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