Klipboard Encourages Organisations to Plan Ahead as Microsoft Server 2016 and SQL Server 2016 Approach End of Support

March 2026 - Klipboard, a leading provider of sector-specific business software (formerly Kerridge Commercial Systems Ltd), is reminding organisations currently operating on Microsoft Windows Server 2016 and SQL Server 2016 to review their environments as both platforms move closer to their end-of-support dates.

SQL Server 2016 reaches end of support in July 2026, followed by Windows Server 2016 in January 2027. After these dates, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or technical support.

While systems will continue to run, unsupported platforms may become more difficult to maintain and protect over time.

This is a routine part of Microsoft’s product lifecycle. There’s no immediate cause for concern, but it’s important organisations are aware of where these systems are in use and consider their longer-term plans.”

Liam Freeman, Managed Services Director at Klipboard

Why awareness matters

Without ongoing updates, older platforms can gradually introduce challenges, including:

• Increased exposure to security vulnerabilities.
• Compatibility limitations with newer software.
• Greater maintenance overhead.

Reviewing environments early allows organisations to plan updates at a manageable pace.

Supporting customers through change

Klipboard works closely with customers to help them maintain stable, secure and well-supported systems. This may include:

• Reviewing existing environments.
• Identifying dependencies.
• Assisting with upgrade or migration paths.

Our focus is always on helping customers avoid disruption and maintain confidence in their systems. With early visibility, transitions can be straightforward and low impact.”

Organisations approaching Server 2016 or SQL Server 2016 milestones are not alone in facing lifecycle transitions. Hardware and platform support cycles are an ongoing reality of enterprise IT.

Even for businesses not immediately affected by these deadlines, reviewing infrastructure currency can help reduce future disruption and avoid reactive upgrade cycles.

Klipboard IT works with customers to assess existing environments and explore practical options, ensuring systems remain stable, secure and well-supported over time.