Microsoft Winds Down Windows Server 2022 Support with October 2026 Deadline
Microsoft has reminded customers that Windows Server 2022 will reach its end of mainstream support on October 13, 2026. This means that after this date, no new features or security updates will be available for the operating system, except for those included in the monthly security updates until October 14, 2031.
Windows Server 2022 was first released in September 2021 as a Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) release, which typically receives 10 years of support. Microsoft advises administrators to upgrade their systems to Windows Server 2025, the latest LTSC release, before October 2031.
The company also extended hotpatching for systems running the Datacenter: Azure Edition until October 2027 and quietly extended the free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for consumers by an additional year. Admins who want to test Windows Server 2025 before deployment can use a free 180-day trial available via the Microsoft Evaluation Center.
Microsoft provides customers with a detailed list of all products that will be retired or reach the end of support this year, including servicing dates on the Windows Lifecycle FAQ page and using the Lifecycle Policy search tool.