Disconnection of all services using Microsoft Windows Server 2003
25 Aug 2015
As you will be aware, Microsoft ended support for Windows Server 2003 on 14 July 2015. This means that no further security updates will be released for this operating system.
We have already seen the release of a critical security patch which excludes Windows Server 2003. To mitigate the risk posed by Windows Server 2003 services on campus, we have blocked IP addresses detected as running this platform, so the majority of these servers now have internal connectivity only.
External connectivity for any services previously granted an exception will be cut off on Tuesday 15 September 2015.
However, please note that we are seeing serious increases in the amount of malicious activity on Windows Server 2003 and this extension may have to be brought forward if public exploits become available.
On Thursday 15 October 2015, all services running Windows Server 2003 – including those previously granted an exception – will be disconnected and no longer accessible on the University network internally or externally. This includes IP addresses which start with ‘10.99’.
If you have any services currently using Windows Server 2003, you must contact the IT Support Centre immediately to advise on your plans and timescales to move these services onto a supported platform, as the services will be disconnected.
We are already working with service owners to provide support and solutions, and can provide assistance where required.
IT Services