No third service pack for Windows Server 2003

Support to be downgraded next summer

Microsoft has outlined some support changes coming in July 2010 for wrinkly versions of its Windows Server platform.

The software giant's Windows Server ops manager Chrissy House declared yesterday that extended support for Windows Server 2000 will end on 13 July 2010.

She was also at pains to "clarify some misperceptions" about Windows Server 2003 support being granted another lifeline with a third service pack.

"We have received inquiries from our customers and partners on whether or not there will be a need for a Service Pack 3 for Windows Server 2003. Microsoft will not have a SP3 release for Windows Server 2003," said House.

As of 13 July 2010, Windows Server 2003 and Windows Server 2003 R2 will be shifted from their current mainstream support phase to the extended support phase.

During that time Microsoft will provide security updates and paid support.

Microsoft has the full skinny here. ®