14 DAY TRIAL // The August 2022 Patch Tuesday was the last patching cycle for Windows Server version 20H2, as the operating system has now reached the end of support.
In other words, Microsoft will no longer provide customers still running this version with further security updates and improvements, so the only option at this point is to upgrade to a new release.
Without security patches, the involved security risks are more than obvious, especially once new vulnerabilities are discovered. And given it’s a server operating system we’re talking about here, the security implications are even more concerning.
“Windows Server, version 20H2 is at end of service today, August 9, 2022. After August 9, 2022, these devices will no longer receive monthly security and quality updates that contain protection from the latest security threats. To continue receiving security and quality updates, Microsoft recommends updating to the latest version of Windows Server,” Microsoft explains.
“We will continue to service the following editions: Windows 10 Enterprise and Education, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, Windows 10 Enterprise multi-session, and Windows 10 on Surface Hub.”
Microsoft also warns that August 9 also witnessed the retirement of the Windows Server Semi-Annual Channel, which means the company is also giving up on new SAC releases for Windows Server.
“This also marks the retirement of Windows Server Semi-Annual Channel (SAC). There will be no future SAC releases of Windows Server. Windows Server is moving to the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) as the primary release channel. Customers using Windows Server SAC should move to Azure Stack HCI. Alternatively, customers may use the Long-Term Servicing Channel of Windows Server,” the company says.
Full information on Windows Server and the current servicing options are available on this page, and of course, customers still running Windows Server versions that have already reached the EOL are recommended to upgrade as soon as possible.