Microsoft Warns Windows Server 2022 Mainstream Support Ends Soon

Windows Server 2022 mainstream support will end on October 13, 2026, Microsoft has warned in a new 90-day reminder to organizations.

After the deadline, the operating system will move into extended support and continue receiving security updates until October 14, 2031.

Windows Server 2022 Moves to Extended Support

Microsoft will continue providing security updates for Windows Server 2022 at no additional cost during the extended support period.

However, the company will stop adding new features and making non-security improvements after mainstream support ends.

Organizations can continue running Windows Server 2022 after October 13, but they will no longer receive the broader updates available during the mainstream support lifecycle.

Businesses should review their server environments before the deadline and decide whether security-only servicing meets their future requirements.

Microsoft Recommends Windows Server 2025

Organizations that want continued mainstream support, new features, and platform improvements must upgrade to Windows Server 2025.

Windows Server 2025 is Microsoft’s latest Long-Term Servicing Channel release for enterprise server systems.

Companies planning an upgrade should test their applications, drivers, management tools, and security software before moving production workloads to the newer operating system.

Windows 11 Version 24H2 Also Reaches End of Support

Windows 11 version 24H2 Home and Pro editions will also reach the end of support on October 13, 2026.

Microsoft recently issued a separate 90-day reminder to administrators and consumers running the affected versions.

After the deadline, Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro devices will stop receiving regular security and quality updates.

Microsoft recommends upgrading eligible computers to Windows 11 version 25H2.

Why Updating Windows Systems Matters

Unsupported Windows versions can leave personal computers and organizational networks exposed to newly discovered security vulnerabilities.

Recent Patch Tuesday releases have addressed hundreds of security flaws, including vulnerabilities that attackers could use to compromise systems, steal information, or gain elevated privileges.

New zero-day threats also continue to emerge. The recently disclosed LegacyHive vulnerability, for example, targets the Windows User Profile Service and could allow a low-privilege user to make changes that affect administrator accounts.

Organizations should identify systems running Windows Server 2022 and Windows 11 24H2, review upgrade requirements, and complete testing before October 13, 2026.

Via Neowin