14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is reminding customers that Windows Server version 20H2 is scheduled to reach the end of support next month, with the operating system to no longer be provided with any further security improvements and updates.
As a result, the risks of sticking with this version of Windows Server are huge, so the best option is obviously to move to a supported release as soon as possible.
The deadline is the next Patch Tuesday, which will take place on August 9. On this day, Windows Server version 20H2 will receive the last batch of security patches, after which it’ll be considered unsupported.
“On August 9, 2022, all editions of Windows Server, version 20H2 will reach end of servicing. The upcoming August 2022 security update, to be released on August 9, 2022, will be the last update available for this version. After that date, devices running this version will no longer receive monthly security and quality updates containing protection from the latest security threats,” Microsoft explains in a new warning.
Upgrade, upgrade, upgrade!
At the same time, the software giant is also reminding customers that the retirement of Windows Server version 2H2 comes alongside the end of the Windows Server SAC.
“This will also be 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.
No specifics are available as to how many devices are still running Windows Server version 20H2 at this point, but if your company is yet to complete the upgrade, urging the transition to a newer release should be a top priority in the short term.