Microsoft shifts Windows Server 2022 to extended support, urging admins to upgrade to the newer 2025 release before security updates change.
Key points
- Windows Server 2022 ends mainstream support in October 2026
- Extended support with security patches continues until October 2031
- Microsoft advises upgrading to Windows Server 2025 for full support
- Hotpatching for Datacenter Azure Edition extends to October 2027
Microsoft announced that Windows Server 2022 has reached the end of mainstream support. The operating system moves into extended support, meaning it will receive security updates but no longer feature updates or non-security patches.
What happened
According to BleepingComputer, Microsoft confirmed that Windows Server 2022 transitioned to extended support as of October 13, 2026. This Long-Term Servicing Channel release was unveiled in March 2021 and became generally available in September 2021. The company stated that the October 2026 security update is the final one provided under mainstream support.
Extended support includes monthly security updates at no additional cost through October 14, 2031. Microsoft also extended hotpatching capabilities for systems running the Datacenter: Azure Edition until October 2027. This allows for one year of post-mainstream support patching without requiring reboots for those specific configurations.
Microsoft advised IT administrators to upgrade to Windows Server 2025 to maintain full mainstream support. Windows Server 2025 began rolling out to Windows Insiders in January 2024 and reached general availability in November 2024. It will reach its own end of mainstream support in November 2029, with extended support continuing until November 14, 2034.
Users can test the newer version using a free 180-day trial available via the Microsoft Evaluation Center. Microsoft also announced that Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions no longer receive preview updates. The company advised upgrading to Windows 11 26H2 and warned users on unsupported versions to upgrade before the Windows Update certificate rotation next year.
Why it matters
Mainstream support provides feature updates, design changes, and non-security technical assistance. When this phase ends, software stops receiving new functionalities and only gets critical security fixes. Extended support ensures systems remain protected against known vulnerabilities but lacks new capabilities. Organizations must plan upgrades to avoid running unsupported software that eventually stops receiving any patches.
Why it matters
Teams usually map their server inventory to identify systems still on older versions. Check whether current workloads require specific features only available in the older release. Verify that backup and recovery procedures are tested before migrating to a new major version. Ensure that application compatibility is validated in a test environment to prevent service interruptions during the transition.
What to do and how to stay safe: Microsoft
- Inventory all servers running Windows Server 2022 to assess upgrade timelines
- Review application compatibility with Windows Server 2025 before deployment
- Schedule downtime for migration to minimize impact on business operations
- Monitor Microsoft’s lifecycle policy for updates on support dates
Step-by-step guide: What is password policies and how they protect systems
General security guidance from the Crypt Weekly newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
When does Windows Server 2022 end mainstream support?
Mainstream support for Windows Server 2022 ended on October 13, 2026.
How long will Windows Server 2022 receive security updates?
Security updates will continue through October 14, 2031, under extended support.
What is the recommended upgrade path?
Microsoft advises upgrading to Windows Server 2025 for full mainstream support.
