Windows Server 2022 will leave mainstream support on 13 October 2026. Microsoft is urging IT administrators to review their upgrade plans before the deadline and consider moving affected systems to Windows Server 2025.
The change does not end security updates immediately. Instead, Windows Server 2022 will move into its extended-support phase, which continues until October 2031.
Mainstream support ends in October
Microsoft released Windows Server 2022 in 2021 as a Long-Term Servicing Channel release. The platform receives 10 years of support in total, split between mainstream and extended support.
The October 2026 security update will be the final update released during the mainstream-support period.
After 13 October, Microsoft will continue to provide monthly security updates at no extra charge. However, the company will no longer offer the full level of product support, feature improvements and standard design changes available during mainstream support.
Microsoft recommends Windows Server 2025
Microsoft recommends that organisations begin planning a move to Windows Server 2025, its current Long-Term Servicing Channel release.
Windows Server 2025 became generally available in November 2024. It will receive mainstream support until November 2029, followed by extended support through November 2034.
Administrators can test compatibility before deployment through Microsoft’s 180-day evaluation version. Early testing can help teams identify application, hardware and configuration issues before migrating production workloads.
Hotpatching will continue for eligible systems
Microsoft recently extended Windows Server 2022 hotpatching until October 2027 for eligible Datacenter: Azure Edition systems.
Hotpatching allows some security updates to install without requiring a reboot. The extension gives qualifying Azure-focused environments an additional year of this capability after Windows Server 2022 support enters its extended phase.
It does not change the overall product lifecycle. Organisations using other editions still need to prepare for the shift from mainstream to extended support in October.
Other Microsoft deadlines are approaching
Microsoft has also highlighted several upcoming Windows support deadlines. Windows 11 version 23H2 Enterprise and Education editions will stop receiving updates on 10 November 2026.
The company recommends upgrading those endpoint devices to Windows 11 version 25H2.
For server administrators, the immediate priority is assessing whether Windows Server 2022 support remains sufficient for their environment. Extended support keeps security patches flowing, but an upgrade to Windows Server 2025 offers the longest path to full mainstream support.
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