Comment CDW peut rendre votre mise à niveau du serveur Microsoft Exchange fluide, sûre et sécuritaire

In earlier editions of Exchange Server, you could run two different versions (even unsupported ones) together within the same organization. This won’t be the case with Microsoft Exchange Server SE, as its setup will block coexistence with the previous versions.

Once the first cumulative update of Microsoft Exchange Server SE (arriving in October 2025) is installed, all preceding versions will stop functioning.

Your current Exchange Server version matters

Your current Exchange Server infrastructure could be running on-premises, in the cloud or in a hybrid state and may have versions older than the 2013 release.

In such cases, you must first upgrade to a minimum Exchange Server 2016 CU23. This will bring you on track for migrating to Microsoft Exchange Server SE.

If you’re using Exchange Server 2019, Microsoft recommends updating to CU14 to be ready for the upgrade.

Server administrators can determine their current Exchange Server version by using the Microsoft Exchange Management Shell. If the version number starts with 15,0 or less, you’re using the 2013 or older release, which will require you to upgrade to the 2016 release at least.

Microsoft Exchange Server SE and Exchange Online will bring about the following changes:

Introduction of Kerberos for server communication

Kerberos is a protocol used for secure network authentication, which will replace the NTLMv2 protocol in the latest Exchange server.

This will introduce a stronger security model and scalability for authenticating users across files, messages and shared resources. It’s already widely used in Microsoft Active Directory.

Introduction of the Admin API

The Admin API will replace Remote PowerShell (RPS) protocol for remote management functions. This is a modern way for communicating with the Exchange Server. Rather than logging in remotely, administrators would be able to use the Admin API for executing managerial changes.

Licencing model changes

Starting with Exchange Server SE, the software will require subscription licences for servers and users, as seen in SharePoint Server Subscription Edition.

However, free hybrid server licences will still be available for hybrid installations using the Hybrid Configuration Wizard.

Once you have brought your current Exchange Server version up to 2016 CU23 or newer, there are two ways to upgrade to Server Exchange SE.

1. Make a legacy upgrade

A legacy upgrade refers to introducing a newer version and moving the mailboxes from the older version to the new version. Once this is achieved, the old version can be removed from the environment.

This method can be used for upgrading from Exchange Server 2016 to Exchange Server 2019 and Exchange Server SE, as well.

2. In-place upgrade to Exchange Server SE

This option is usable only if you’re currently on Exchange Server 2019. It allows for a direct upgrade to Exchange Server SE from Exchange Server 2019 CU14/CU15.

The process is similar to installing the cumulative updates and can be managed from within the application.

Beyond the upgrade methods, server administrators have a number of considerations such as the infrastructure requirements, data integrity and change management.

The upgrade process is heavily influenced by the infrastructure and policies in place, which is why it may look different for each organization. When you plan to migrate to a new version, it’s worth reviewing the roadblocks and risks well in advance.

Here are a few noteworthy challenges you might need to prepare for.

• Compatibility issues: Compatibility with existing applications, third-party add-ons and custom scripts may be affected by the upgrade.
• Data migration risks: Moving mailboxes and other data can be complex, with risks of data loss or corruption.
• Downtime: Ensuring minimal downtime during the transition is challenging, especially in organizations with high email usage.
• User disruption: Upgrades may lead to client-side configuration changes, causing disruptions for end users.
• DNS and network configuration: Updates to network and DNS settings may cause delays or connectivity issues.
• Compliance: Ensuring the new configuration complies with organizational policies and regulatory standards can be a challenge.

In addition to the above list, there could be several specific challenges that may arise during the upgrade. We recommend creating a systematic upgrade plan to tackle challenges ahead of time.

Exchange Server is the backbone of business email and collaboration for Microsoft customers, making the upcoming upgrade an inevitable one from security and continuity standpoints.

CDW Canada, the 2023 Microsoft Modern Workplace Partner of the Year, is committed to delivering a smooth, sure and safe upgrade for Canadian organizations.   

CDW has a pool of 40+ dedicated Microsoft and 100+ security professionals who are trained to gold standard level, ready to assist you with the entire migration process.

Our expertise in Microsoft products ensures that your migration complies with the best practices and future updates.

Our Exchange Server upgrade process

Assess: Evaluate all Exchange servers in your organization, noting their roles and dependencies. Perform comprehensive security audits to find and fix vulnerabilities before support ends.  

Architect: Evaluate the roadmap of transitioning to Exchange Online or upgrading to the forthcoming Exchange Server Subscription Edition (Exchange Server SE), set for release in Q3 2025. Additionally, review and enhance access controls to ensure that only authorized individuals can access sensitive information.  

Implement: Collaborate with you to create a migration strategy aimed at minimizing disruptions to your business operations. Ensure that all patches and updates are applied to your Exchange Servers before support ends to reduce security risks.

Additionally, develop an incident response plan to swiftly tackle any security breaches or issues that may occur during or post-migration.  

Resources available to our customers

• Dedicated portal to manage your own licence (csp.cdw.ca) 
• A team of highly certified Microsoft solution architects with 30+ Microsoft certifications 
• A dedicated Microsoft solutions specialist who is your first point of contact for all things Microsoft 

Start your Exchange Server migration journey with CDW and optimize the time, costs and resources needed for the upgrade. Talk to our Microsoft experts to discuss your current version, infrastructure and migration plan options.