Техподдержка windows server 2016

Microsoft Windows Server 2016 was released in September 2016. So, when does it become end-of-life? There is a lot of false information about the EOL status of Windows Server 2016. We review the EOL status and what it means for the Windows Server 2016 administrator.

Windows Server 2016 follows the Fixed Lifecycle Licensing Policy. So, support for Microsoft Windows Server 2016 is slit into 2 halves. Each Fixed Lifecyle product of Microsoft comes with 2 different support:

1. Mainstream support
2. Extended support

Mainstream support is valid for 5 years from the release data. And, Extended support is valid for the successive 5 years once the mainstream support ends.

With a release data of September 2016, we now understand that the mainstream support for Windows Server 2016 is valid for the first 5 years. And, the successive 5 years of support will be called the Extended Support.

There is a difference in the scope of Mainstream support and Extended Support. So, we need to understand those differences to appreciate the Fixed Lifecycle Plan.

It may be pertinent to understand that Extended Support of a Fixed Lifecycle product is different that the ESU or Extended Security Updates programs.

So, for Windows Server 2016, the mainstream support ended on 11 January, 2022. The Extended Support for Windows Server 2016 will end on 12 January, 2027.

The question of the ESU program for Windows Server 2016 will be relevant after January 2027. So, there is no need to commit into buying any ESU for Windows Server 2016 until January 2027.

What does the Mainstream support mean?

The mainstream support for Windows Server 2016 ended in January 2022.

Mainstream Support is the first phase of the product lifecycle. At the supported service pack level, Mainstream Support for Windows Server 2016 includes:

• Incident support (no-charge incident support, paid incident support, support charged on an hourly basis, support for warranty claims)
• Security update support
• The ability to request non-security updates

For Windows Server 2016, the mainstream support ended in January 2022. So, we can conclude that product support for Windows Server 2016 in terms of feature updates and non-security updates will no longer be offered.

Thankfully, access to security updates for Windows Server 2016 is covered under the ‘Extended Support’.

What does Extended Support for Windows Server 2016 mean?

Extended Support for Windows Server 2016 begins after the mainstream support for the server ended in January 2022. Until 12 January 2027, Windows Server 2016 is eligible for Extended Support.

The Extended Support for Windows Server 2016 include the following:

• Security Updates to patch security vulnerabilities reported in Microsoft security bulletins.

Product support for Windows Server 2016 is not included in the Extended Support.

You can always buy a Service Pack for Windows Server 2016 to enjoy support for the product. But, for any product issues requiring Microsoft support, you will need to pay to get that support separately.

Extended Support for Windows Server 2016 started in January 2022 and will end in January 2027.

Security coverage for Windows Server 2016

So, the coverage for providing security updates for Windows Server 2016 includes a 10 year period that is comprised of 5 years of Mainstream support and 5 years of Extended support.

The ‘Patch Tuesday’ program for Windows Server 2016 will offer security updates for the server until January 2027. Post January 2027, you will need to enroll in the paid subscription program of the ESU program for Windows Server 2016.

Windows Server 2016 reached the end of mainstream support in January 2022 and will receive extended support until January 2027. Learn about the key dates, upgrade options, and security considerations as you plan your transition to newer versions of Windows Server.

What Does “End of Mainstream Support” Mean?

Mainstream support refers to the period when Microsoft provides active assistance, including new feature updates, security patches, and regular bug fixes. After this phase ends, customers no longer receive regular updates, leaving systems vulnerable to security risks. Extended support, which continues until January 11, 2027, only includes critical security updates and patches, without any new features or non-security updates.

Key Dates for Windows Server 2016

• End of Mainstream Support: January 11, 2022
• End of Extended Support: January 11, 2027

What Happens After January 2022?

After January 2022, Windows Server 2016 users no longer receive new features or performance improvements. Although security updates will still be available during the extended support phase, the following concerns arise:

1. Security Risks: Without regular updates and patches, systems running Windows Server 2016 become more susceptible to security threats.
2. Compliance Issues: Continuing to use outdated systems may lead to non-compliance with regulatory standards.
3. Cost of Maintenance: Extended support can incur additional costs for Custom Support for organizations requiring updates beyond critical security patches.
4. Support Availability: Microsoft’s customer support for Windows Server 2016 will be limited after mainstream support ends, potentially leading to longer resolution times for issues.

The Importance of Upgrading:

Upgrading to newer versions of Windows Server, such as Windows Server 2019 or Windows Server 2022, is essential for organizations. Benefits include:

• Enhanced Security: Newer versions offer better protection against emerging threats and ransomware.
• Performance Improvements: Later versions come with optimizations that enhance system performance, particularly in virtualized environments.
• New Features: Upgrading unlocks advanced cloud integration, improved container support, and other key innovations.

How Long Will Windows Server 2016 Be Supported?

Windows Server 2016 reached end of mainstream support on January 11, 2022. It will continue to receive extended support until January 11, 2027. During this extended support phase, Microsoft will only provide critical security updates and patches, but there will be no new feature updates or non-security fixes. After 2027, Windows Server 2016 will no longer receive any support.

Which Windows Servers Are End of Life?

Several Windows Server versions have either reached or will soon reach their end of life:

• Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2: These versions reached the end of support on January 14, 2020.
• Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2: End of mainstream support was on October 9, 2018, and the extended support will end on October 10, 2023.
• Windows Server 2016: End of mainstream support was on January 11, 2022, and extended support will last until January 11, 2027.
• Windows Server 2019: End of mainstream support will be on January 9, 2024, with extended support until January 9, 2029.
• Windows Server 2022: Current version, with support until October 14, 2031 (mainstream support).

Can I Upgrade From Server 2016 to Server 2022?

Yes, it is possible to upgrade from Windows Server 2016 to Windows Server 2022. An in-place upgrade is available, allowing you to upgrade without needing to wipe your server or reinstall it from scratch. However, ensure that:

• Your server meets the hardware and software requirements for Windows Server 2022.
• You perform the upgrade in a test environment first to check for compatibility and resolve potential issues.
• You back up all data before starting the upgrade process.

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Is Windows Server 2016 Still Supported?

Yes, Windows Server 2016 is still supported under extended support until January 11, 2027. However, since it is no longer in ainstream support, no new features or non-security updates will be released. Only security patches and fixes for critical issues will be provided. Organizations using Windows Server 2016 must consider upgrading to a newer version before the end of extended support to ensure continued protection and feature access.

This information is important for businesses to plan their upgrades and ensure they stay secure and compliant as they transition to newer server versions.

FAQs:

What is “Mainstream Support” and “Extended Support” for Windows Server 2016?

Mainstream support ended on January 11, 2022, which means no new features, general updates, or fixes were provided. During extended support (until January 11, 2027), only security patches and critical updates will be released, without any new features or non-security fixes.

Can I Get Help With Windows Server 2016 After January 2022?

Yes, Microsoft will continue to offer technical support for security issues until 2027. However, there will be no help for new features, non-security fixes, or general system updates after mainstream support ends.

What Risks Do I Face By Using Windows Server 2016 After 2022?

Running Windows Server 2016 after 2022 without mainstream support can expose your system to security vulnerabilities, as no new features or general updates will be available. Additionally, you could face compliance issues with industry standards that require up-to-date systems.

Why Should I Upgrade to a Newer Version of Windows Server?

Upgrading to Windows Server 2019 or Windows Server 2022 will provide better security, improved system performance, and access to new features like enhanced cloud integration and container support. These benefits help ensure your systems stay protected and efficient.

Can I Upgrade from Windows Server 2016 to Windows Server 2022?

Yes, an in-place upgrade is possible from Windows Server 2016 to Windows Server 2022. However, ensure your hardware meets the requirements and back up your data. It’s also recommended to test the upgrade in a non-production environment before implementing it.

What Happens If I Keep Using Windows Server 2016 After 2027?

After January 2027, Windows Server 2016 will no longer receive any support. This means no security patches, leaving your system vulnerable to threats and potentially causing compatibility issues with newer software.

How Much Will Custom Support Cost After Extended Support Ends?

After 2027, custom support will be available for organizations that need extra help beyond the standard extended support. However, this service will come at an additional cost, and you will need to contact Microsoft for specific pricing details.

Conclusion:

The end of mainstream support for Windows Server 2016 is a critical milestone that requires proactive planning. Organizations must weigh the risks of running unsupported software against the benefits of upgrading to newer versions to ensure continued security, compliance, and performance.

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Windows Server 2016 meets its end of Mainstream support today.  The official Microsoft Lifecycle schedule is here.  Traditionally when perpetual licensed software is released we’ve come to expect five years of Mainstream support and another five of Extended support (this goes away with Microsoft’s move towards Subscription-based licensing, but that’s the topic of a future post).  

When Mainstream support ends, this means that Microsoft no longer provides:

• Technical support for problems that might occur
• Bug fixes for issues discovered that might impact the stability and usability of the server

Microsoft will however continue to provide Security updates at no additional cost within the Extended support period.

If you’re still running Windows Server 2016 now is a great time to consider refreshing your environment to Windows Server 2022.  We looked into the notable new features, and shared the insights within this solution team member blog.

And for an update into all that we’re doing around HPE Storage solutions for Microsoft workloads, check out our updated solution webpage here: hpe.com/Storage/Microsoft

Mike Harding | Microsoft Solutions Product Management
Hewlett Packard Enterprise