Having finally decided on a hosting company for remote access (via RDP) to my client/server application, I'm now putting together a quote for my client and one issue keeps "nagging at me", should I move on to Windows 2012 Server OS with SQL Server 2012 or stick with what I'm already familiar with, Windows Server 2008 R2 with SQL Server 2008 R2? During my search for a hosting company, it appears that Microsoft is pushing their 2012 version (what else is new?) and that, in time, 2012 may be the only option available. Does anyone have any strong opinions on either version (pros and cons) and/or any suggestions for me to resolve my small dilemma? Personally, I'd like to stick with 2008 R2, but I need RDS CALs (which are NOT compatible between versions) and how long will 2008 R2 stay on Microsoft "life support"? -OR- Am I totally overthinking on this one?
Windows Server 2008 R2 - end of extended support January 2020. (A little more than 3 years away)
Windows Server 2012 R2 - end of extended support January 2023.
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle?c2=1163