Is your practice using an outdated server operating system? Here’s why that may be a problem.
If your medical practice is still using Microsoft Windows Server 2012, you could be putting your business, patients and reputation at risk without even realising it.
Back in October 2023, Microsoft officially ended support for Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2. These server operating systems are often the backbone of a practice’s IT setup, managing things like software access, security and hardware performance.
Without ongoing support, however, your IT systems could be more vulnerable than ever.
What are the risks of using Windows Server 2012?
Microsoft’s end of support means Windows Server 2012 no longer receives:
- Security updates
- Bug fixes or patches
- Technical support.
This means your entire practice IT infrastructure – including all the hardware and software you use daily – could be vulnerable to:
Cyber threats
Hackers actively target unsupported systems with known vulnerabilities. Without security updates, Windows Server 2012 is an open door for attacks like ransomware (which locks your data until a ransom is paid) or data breaches that can compromise patient records.
Considering healthcare is the Australian sector most targeted by cybercriminals, it’s essential to minimise IT security vulnerabilities as soon as possible.
Underperforming systems
Since Windows Server 2012 was launched, clinical software and day-to-day IT tools have advanced significantly. Running them on an outdated server could mean:
- Delays in accessing patient files
- Frequent system crashes
- Disrupted workflows in reception, billing or consultations.
Compatibility problems
New clinical platforms and software updates are no longer built with Windows Server 2012 in mind. You may already be noticing that some programs no longer work as expected or can’t be updated. Over time, this may limit your ability to use the important software platforms your practice relies on.
Application crashes and data loss
Windows Server 2012 end of support means third-party software vendors for clinical, security or business applications will also choose not to support the operating system. This means your critical applications may fail or cause data loss, and resolving them could be a challenge due to lack of vendor support.
Increased compliance risks
Medical practices must take “reasonable steps” to protect patient data under Australian privacy laws. Using unsupported software like Windows Server 2012 makes it very difficult, if not impossible, to meet this obligation, potentially leading to fines and reputational damage.
If you’re a general practice, operating outdated IT systems can also raise concerns during the RACGP accreditation process. Your data protection measures and system vulnerabilities could be seen as non-compliant.
Insurance complications
Many insurers won’t cover practices that continue using unsupported operating systems. This can leave you financially exposed if a breach or failure occurs.
Why it’s risky to delay upgrading Windows Server 2012
It’s understandable that practices hesitate to upgrade their IT infrastructure given the complexity, cost and disruption involved. However, delaying the upgrade only increases the risk of a serious IT failure, which could cost your practice far more in downtime, lost data or reputational damage.
With cyber threats increasing and technology evolving fast, making the switch to a secure, supported system is one of the best ways to protect your practice.
It’s also essential to have a disaster recovery plan in place. Without it, a server crash or cyberattack could leave your practice unable to access critical systems like patient records, billing platforms or clinical notes for days.
How PracticeIT can help modernise your IT
To help practices transition with minimal disruption, Avant has partnered with healthcare IT specialists REND Tech to deliver PracticeIT – a solution built specifically for general and specialist practices.
Whether you run a solo clinic or a larger practice, our service can modernise your IT to help ensure:
- Reliable performance for server-based clinical software
- Scalable infrastructure that grows with your clinic
- Enhanced data protection and disaster recovery to support compliance and continuity
- Reduced downtime and disruptions that impact patient care.
Book a no-obligation IT assessment today to explore how PracticeIT can help your clinic.
Other resources
More ways we can help you
*IMPORTANT: This publication is not comprehensive and does not constitute legal or medical advice. You should seek legal or other professional advice before relying on any content, and practise proper clinical decision making with regard to the individual circumstances. Persons implementing any recommendations contained in this publication must exercise their own independent skill or judgment or seek appropriate professional advice relevant to their own particular practice. Compliance with any recommendations will not in any way guarantee discharge of the duty of care owed to patients and others coming into contact with the health professional or practice. Avant and Avant Practice Solutions are not responsible to you or anyone else for any loss suffered in connection with the use of this information. Information is only current at the date initially published. © Avant Mutual Group Limited 2025.