Windows Server versions follow a fixed lifecycle policy, meaning each version has a defined End of Support (EOS) date. If a Windows Server version reaches its End of Life (EOL), Microsoft no longer provides security updates, bug fixes, or technical support, making systems vulnerable to security risks.
| Windows Server Version | End of Mainstream Support | End of Extended Support |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Server 2012 / 2012 R2 | October 9, 2018 | October 10, 2023 (EOL) |
| Windows Server 2016 | January 11, 2022 | January 12, 2027 |
| Windows Server 2019 | January 9, 2024 | January 9, 2029 |
| Windows Server 2022 | October 13, 2026 | October 14, 2031 |
? Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 have reached End of Life (EOL) as of October 10, 2023. Organizations using these versions must upgrade to Windows Server 2019 or 2022 for security and compliance.
? Upgrade to a Supported Version – Migrate to Windows Server 2019 or 2022
? Use Microsoft Extended Security Updates (ESUs) – Available for up to 3 years after EOL (for a fee)
? Move to Microsoft Azure – Azure customers get free security updates for legacy Windows Server versions
At Microtek Learning, we offer Windows Server training and certification programs to help IT professionals and businesses upgrade to modern, secure server environments.
?? Looking to migrate to Windows Server 2022? Explore our certification training to stay ahead in server management and security.