Windows Server 2022 Mainstream Support Ends in October 2026
Microsoft has notified customers that Windows Server 2022 mainstream support will end on October 13, 2026. The operating system will then enter extended support, with monthly security updates available through October 14, 2031.
When does Windows Server 2022 support end?
Windows Server 2022 was announced in March 2021 and became generally available in September 2021 as a Long Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) release with 10 years of support.
“On October 13, 2026, mainstream support for Windows Server 2022 will end. The October 2026 security updates will be the last mainstream support updates available for this version,” Microsoft said on Friday.
After mainstream support ends, Windows Server 2022 will move to extended support. Microsoft says customers will continue receiving security updates at no additional cost, including monthly security updates through October 14, 2031.
Microsoft has also extended hot patching support for Windows Server 2022 by one year, through October 2027. The company lists October 2026 as the mainstream support end date for systems running Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition.
In June, Microsoft also quietly extended its free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for consumers by another year. Registered devices can continue receiving security updates until October 12, 2027.
Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows Server 2025
Microsoft is advising administrators to evaluate an upgrade to Windows Server 2025 before Windows Server 2022 reaches the end of support. Windows Server 2025 began rolling out to Windows Insiders in January 2024 and reached general availability in November 2022.
Windows Server 2025 mainstream support ends on November 13, 2029. It will then receive an additional five years of extended support through November 14, 2034.
“Windows Server 2025 is now the latest Long Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) release of Windows Server. To keep your environment protected and supported, plan to upgrade to Windows Server 2025 for full mainstream support,” Microsoft said. “Evaluate your upgrade options and start testing your deployment early to ensure a smooth transition.”
Windows Server 2025 offers a 180-day trial
Organizations that want to test Windows Server 2025 before deploying it can download a free 180-day trial from the Microsoft Evaluation Center.
For additional information about Microsoft servicing dates, visit the Windows Lifecycle FAQ or use Microsoft’s Lifecycle policy search tool.
Microsoft also provides a detailed list of products scheduled to be retired or no longer supported in 2026.
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Source: www.bleepingcomputer.com