Windows server type server

Windows Server is a line of operating systems that Microsoft specifically created for use in a normal version of Windows to suit business requirements. In almost all cases, normal users don’t need the complexity of Windows Server. You won’t even find it in stores and you can’t mistakenly download it for Microsoft when you meant to get the standard version (Windows). Basically, the standard version of Windows is for normal users while the Windows Server is for business.

Another way to understand this is that Microsoft designed Windows for use with a desktop you sit in front of, while Windows server is a server that runs services across a network and other systems. The Windows server is designed to share services with multiple users and provide administrative control of data storage and applications.

Now that we are clear on that, we are going to be looking at the types and features of Windows server.

1. Windows Server 2003

Microsoft word introduced the Windows server brand with the release of Windows server 2003. This was the first time a .net environment was included with the Windows Server operating system.

The 2003 version of Windows Server was featured with server roles that allowed the operating system to be tailored to specialized tasks such as a DNS (Domain Name System) server.

This version also featured Volume Shadow Copy Services (VSSC). Microsoft VSSC is a Microsoft Windows Server feature that takes snapshots of files for shared folders and backups.

Other features are:

• Expanded Encryption functionality

• Built-in firewall

• Greater NAT network access translation

2. Windows Server 2003 R2

This version came out in 2005. At this time (2005) all Windows Server 2003 sales from the release of this version were actually Windows server 2003 R2.

This means that the R2 only used the CALs (Client Access Licenses) of the immediately preceding server version (in this case Windows Server 2003) to avoid upgrading those licenses.

The key new features are:

• Active directory federation services enable administrators to broaden single sign-on access to applications and systems beyond the corporate firewall.

  The active directory extension enabled external services to be included in the ‘single sign-on’ permissions managed within the network.

• The R2 package also featured Active Directory (AD) application mode, which creates arm’s length relationships with third-party applications. This feature stores data for applications that may be considered not secure enough to use in the Active Directory system.

This package also included better data compression for files and transfers and application processes for multi-site WANs (Wireless Area Networks).

3. Windows Server 2008

Windows Server 2008, the next version which took three years to evolve had another upgrade to AD (Active Directory).

Some vital changes were made to how network services interacted with the software support features of the operating system.

Its features include:

• Hyper-V virtualization software— this was introduced to enhance the company’s competitiveness in IT management. The idea was that, if system administrators already have a Hyper-V installed, there will be no need to bring in a rival VM virtual machine system.

• Server Core— this increasingly important product of Microsoft was the bare version of Windows Server that allowed command-line access.

Other new features into the Windows Server 2008 were Event Viewer and Server Manager which were system administration tools that permitted administrators to have better control over the activities of the server.

4. Windows Server 2008 R2

First made available in 2009, Windows Server 2008 R2 is still in use today.

Microsoft kind of used its Windows 7 basic and modified its scalability and availability features to a 64-bit operating environment from a 32-bit operating system.

There were more changes in Active Directory (AD) to enhance group policy implementation.

The terminal services were also repackaged to the remote desktop services RDS

New features in this series (2008 R2) include Brand Cache and Direct Access which were both aimed at improving access to the server from users at remote locations.

5. Windows Server 2012

By 2012, Microsoft added features to Windows Server to enable better interaction with ‘off-sites’ so much so that the company marketed Windows Server 2013 as «Cloud OS». This was probably why the VM was initially introduced in the Windows Server 2008 version.

Imperial updates were also made to the storage infrastructure of the operating system and Hyper-V virtualization platform to make cloud resources as easy to integrate into on-site delivery as local hosts.

New features were:

• Hyper-V virtual switch

• Hyper-V replica

• Storage spaces

Also, the Server Core and PowerShell became significant with this release Microsoft switched the default installation option to Server Core which requires administrators to use PowerShell.

Windows Server 2012 came in 4 editions: Essentials, Foundation, Standard and Datacenter.

6. Windows Server 2012 R2

This version, a revised 2012 was released in 2013. The massive changes that were singing this version included enhanced virtualization, information, security, and web services.

The ability to serve mobile devices with software from the server was also improved.

New features included are:

• Desired State Configuration was built on PowerShell to prevent configuration drift and maintain consistency across the organization’s machines.

• Storage tethering was added to storage spaces to boost performance by automatically moving frequently called blocks of data to solid-state storage.

• Work folders allow users to retrieve and save company files on work and personal devices through replication to servers in the organization’s data center.

7. Windows Server 2016

Here, VM (Virtual Machine) systems were also added with an encryption system for Hyper-V and the new ability to interact with Dockers.

Microsoft introduced the Nano Server along with the inclusion of Server Core with the intention of boosting security through the light-weight server implementation that made it harder to attack.

Another plus to security is shown in the new Hyper-V shielded VM feature which uses encryption to prevent data inside a VM from being compromised.

Microsoft included the network controller as a key feature that permits administrators to manage both physical and virtual network devices from one console.

Windows Server 2016 came in Standards and data center versions.

8. Windows Server 2019

Behold! The latest version of the Microsoft server operating system- Windows Server 2019 -was released in October 2018.

Windows Server 2019 features were consistent with numerous innovations: hybrid, security, application platform, and Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI).

The HCI features of Windows Server 2019 are aimed at service to consumers. The system is capable of supporting software-defined data centers as well as their customers. The HCI is able to adjust virtualized services without taking the system down.

Project Honolulu, the Windows Admin Center, is a server management utility that also manages servers that operate Windows Server 2012 R2 and Windows Server 2016.

The console covers multiple servers irrespective of the platform of the monitored server.

The server core option that was built in since the Windows Server 2008 edition is now more compact, about half its size on this version.

Users of Windows Server 2019 get access to the full front end administration tools in the GUI interface.

A highly vital security addition, Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) has also been featured in this version.

You might be wondering what the processes involved in the replacement of the Windows Server operating system are. It is not automatic, and it requires the new version to be purchased separately, except for the R2 versions which are allowed free upgrading of the original version of the particular server.

Not to worry though, the 2008 R2, 2012 R2, and 2018 are still actively operating. Also, bearing in mind that every purchase of Windows Server comes with 10 years’ support, it will only be rational to take full advantage of the mainstream support until it expires.

Similar to the client Windows editions, Windows Server is also offered in various editions. Windows Server is an operating system designed to manage and control the networking infrastructure around it.

Each edition is designed for a different audience, providing them with a unique set of tools and features to manage their environment more effectively. Furthermore, they are designed for organizations of different sizes.

Similar to the client operating system, server editions depend on the type of license one uses. This means that one can later upgrade their Server edition by changing the licensing key.

In this post, we are going to discuss all the different Windows Server editions Microsoft offers of the different Server versions.

Windows Server Versions vs. Editions

Before we dive into the details of the various editions, let us briefly differentiate between the Server version and the editions.

You will come across the mention of the following editions in this post:

• Advanced
• Professional
• Web
• Foundation
• Essentials
• Standard
• Standard Core
• Enterprise
• Datacenter
• Datacenter Core
• Datacenter: Azure Edition

These are the different editions a Windows Server can be offered in. However, some or all of these editions can be offered in the various Server versions which are denoted by the suffixed year they were released (e.g. 2019, 2022), or by integers (e.g. 4.0 – This naming convention is no longer used).

That said, a complete Server name would be something like this, consisting of both the version as well as its edition:

Windows Server 2022 Datacenter

You can check your Server details by typing in winver in the Run Command box.

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Server editions can be classified as retail or volume licenses. As the name suggests, a retail license can only be used on a single PC, while a volume license is designed for organizations that require running a server on more than one instance.

Moreover, you can also use a free-of-cost license categorized as an evaluation license. However, these are only valid for a limited time, after which the Server installation will no longer be functional.

Let us now discuss the differences in these Server editions.

Windows Server Editions

Before we dig into the key differences between these editions, here is a summary:

Note: There was no concept of the different Server editions before Server 2000. Furthermore, Server 2000 is also offered as a simple “Windows 2000 Server” edition, with no edition name. This means it is offered in 3 different editions: Plain, Advanced, and Datacenter.

Let us now discuss in depth the differences and similarities in the different Server editions.

Windows Server Standard vs. Datacenter

The table below highlights the major differences and similarities between the Standard and the Datacenter editions of Windows Server:

Windows Server Standard Edition

The Standard edition of the Server is based on Client Access License (CAL) requirements, which is a commercial software license that allows multiple client computers to use server software services. The Standard edition includes all of the features in the Essentials edition and more.

With a single Standard license, it allows you two Operating System Environments (OSEs) on top of itself, as well as a Hyper-V host. In case of more Virtual Machines (VMs), you will need to purchase more licenses.

It also allows you to integrate with the Azure cloud and manage accordingly, creating a centralized managed environment. You can also synchronize file servers and share data throughout your organization.

Windows Server Datacenter Edition

The Datacenter edition is for organizations that need highly virtualized and cloud-integrated environments. In comparison to the Standard edition, you can create unlimited VMs, but only one Hyper-V host, like the Standard edition.

One distinct feature that the Datacenter edition offers is the Network Controller. Using this tool, which the Standard Edition does not offer, you can monitor, manage, control, and troubleshoot your virtualized network, and even automate a few tasks.

It also includes Host Guardian Hyper-V Support, which makes managing virtual machines much easier while keeping them secure. They can help you manage the keys required to start a shielded VM.

That said, the Datacenter edition is considered the most cost-effective yet scalable software-based data center solution out of all the Server editions.

To gain more insight on the features of the 2 editions, read this detailed Microsoft comparison post.

Windows Server Essentials Edition

Windows Server 2012 was the first Server version that offered the Essentials edition. This edition is designed for small organizations with preferably 25 to 50 devices in total.

As the name implies, it includes the essential components a business needs to keep its company afloat. This includes integration with Azure Site Recovery services that ensure business continuity in case of a disaster.

The Essentials edition also supports integration with the Azure Virtual network to help you move your data to the cloud, which satisfies both business continuity planning and High Availability (HA) to all employees of the organization.

Windows Server Enterprise Edition

This edition is aimed at medium to large enterprises and was first launched with Windows Server 2003. However, it was discontinued after Server 2008 R2.

It supports up to 8 physical processors and up to 64 GB of RAM, with the support for hot-reloading.

The Enterprise Edition also comes in specialized variants for the x64 and Itanium architectures with support for much higher RAM capacity.

Windows Server Foundation

The Foundation edition is preinstalled inside the OEM device, and a separate license for this edition cannot be purchased. A single license can only work on a single device, thus it is only suitable for small businesses. That said, it is one of the cheapest server solutions for small business owners.

However, this edition was only offered with Windows Server 2008 and 2012 (R2 included) but has since been discontinued.

The Foundation edition provides the core IT infrastructure needed to build a business, such as file and print sharing, remote access, and moderate security. It was the ideal OS for low-budget IT administrators to manage networks and domains at the time whilst providing basic organizational infrastructure.

Windows Server Web Edition

The Web edition of Windows Server began rolling out with Windows Server 2003 but was discontinued after 2008 and 2008 R2. This means that Windows Server 2008 was the only version to offer both Web and a Foundation edition.

The primary purpose of the Web edition is to host and build web applications, web pages, and XML services. This is the only edition that does not require a Client Access License (CAL).

That said, the Domain Controller and Terminal Services functionality is not included in the Web Edition, unlike all other editions of Windows Server. Furthermore, other features are also somewhat restricted. For example, only 10 concurrent file-sharing connections are allowed at any moment.

Here is a table for a quick comparison between the Web and the Foundation editions:

Windows Server Advanced Edition

The Advanced edition was only offered with Windows Server 2000. At the time, it was the only Server capable of handling added physical hardware. For example, the Advanced edition can support up to 8 CPUs and RAM up to 8 GB.

It was because of these capabilities, the Advanced edition of Server 2000 was ideal for medium to large organizations.

Windows Server Datacenter: Azure Edition

This edition cannot be purchased but can be subscribed to. Windows Server Datacenter: Azure edition is exactly like the regular Datacenter edition, but is available entirely on the Azure cloud infrastructure.

You can create your Azure account and then continue to deploy an Azure VM using Windows Server Datacenter, and use it as you please. It can be integrated with your on-premise servers, or entirely with your other cloud servers, or even as a hybrid server.

These are all the Server editions you may come across if you are working with Microsoft Servers. However, some of these editions may have further variations.

Windows Server Core vs. Desktop Experience

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While performing a clean Windows Server installation, apart from the editions, you will also be asked to choose whether you wish to install the Desktop Experience version or the regular one. The regular version is usually the Core version.

Windows Server Core editions are missing the Graphical User Interface (GUI) you normally see on a Windows client machine, which includes the various windows, apps, the mouse cursor animations, etc. It only includes the Command Line Interface (CLI), thus only allowing you to configure and control the server using the scripts and commands.

Whereas in the Desktop Experience, you are given the complete Windows experience with a pleasing interface.

That said, this isn’t the only key difference. Although the Core version allows you to manage your server more intently using the switches and parameters, it also lacks a few components that you normally get in the Desktop Experience version.

Here is a brief comparison:

Upgrade/ Change Windows Server Edition

Editions, as well as versions, can often be changed or upgraded for Windows Server. However, this is very much dependent upon the current version/edition that you are running.

To make things more understandable, we have separated the do-able and not do-able practices that you can follow to change your Server’s edition:

Not Do-able

Do-able

Windows Server Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)

Microsoft had announced they will move to the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) as their primary release channel for Windows Server. This means all future Server releases will be considered LTSC, so a denotation alongside the Server version is no longer necessary.

LTSC means that the Server version will be getting 10 years of support; 5 years of mainstream support and 5 years of extended support.

Previously, Microsoft had adopted the bi-annual update release where a new update for the Server was released twice every year, known as the Semi-Annual Channel (SAC). However, realizing that not all organizations frequently want to make changes to their Servers, they then shifted to the LTSC infrastructure.

This helps organizations maintain their current Server infrastructure without being forced to make any changes. However, they can later upgrade to a newer version which, of course, will require a new license.

Here, we would also like to point out that Microsoft previously began releasing “R2” versions of Servers that did not require any additional license purchases. Meaning that organizations with a valid license for Windows Server 2012 could automatically upgrade to Windows Server 2012 R2 free of cost.

Final Takeaway

We certainly hope this article clears up any confusion regarding Windows Server products. Using this guide, you can now make an informed decision on which Server edition meets your requirements, and then purchase a license accordingly.

If you are still uncertain, you can deploy the evaluation versions of the Standard or the Datacenter editions for Server 2022 or Server 2019 for a limited time and have a hands-on experience, or if you are a student with an institute, you can create an Azure account and get free $200 credit to test out a Server VM.

When it comes to choosing a Windows Server license for your personal project or business, it can be quite a hassle. While most providers that are an official SPLA partner can offer you a license directly when you get hosting, things are a little bit different when you want to purchase an individual license for your own needs.

However, you might be surprised to learn that there is more to the traditional Windows Server licenses than you might think as there are 2 distinct editions that you can choose from — the Standard and the Datacenter license with both having their own advantages and setbacks based on what you might need.

This is why we are going to be comparing both licensing types, delving deeper into their features, cost and limitations so that you can make an informed decision when choosing a license!

So whether you are looking for easy scalability, cost-effectiveness or compatibility, we’ve got you or your business covered! From small local businesses and personal projects to big enterprise corporations, there is a Windows Server that will always fit your needs!

Resources, Features & Security

Now, while you might think that the 2 types are quite different from one another, they are not that far apart, although there are some distinct differences.

Resource Control

Each Windows Server runs on a set of preconfigured resources — CPU, RAM and storage and having the ability to make the most out of those resources is crucial when running your own business or project, especially for larger organizations and enterprises.

CPU & RAM limitations

With a Standard Windows Server license, you are more suited to run smaller individual nodes or servers as CPU cores come in packs of 2 with a maximum of 2 processing units per server. Additionally, RAM is also limited to 24TB, which can later on hinder you from scaling your servers or business if you happen to get a lot of traffic and potential customers. This is why it’s not advised to go for this particular edition if you intend to run a big online platform like an e-commerce business or if you are a large service provider.

With a Datacenter type, you are able to license all cores on a physical server, which means that you can get an unlimited number of CPU units, while also having access to the entire RAM capacity of the unit. This ensures better scalability and leaves you with room to grow your business further, while also proving to be a more cost-effective solution for larger projects and corporations. Not only that, but it also opens up the door to virtualization, which can help with resource, project and personnel management, boosting productivity and increasing efficiency.

Virtualization capabilities

Speaking of virtualization, the Standard edition will only allow you to create and manage up to 2 virtual machines per physical server. While this might not seem like that much, it is a perfect option for smaller businesses that don’t require additional features and a lot of resources to operate. Some examples could be a personal project, a portfolio or a small local business that is mainly aimed at providing information or offering a small number of goods online. Having 2 VMs will also be a great option for getting a development and a testing environment, allowing you to thoroughly check everything before deploying it on the main server.

With a Datacenter license on the other hand, you are capable of creating an unlimited number of VMs due to the fact that the license can utilize all resources of the physical server. Not only that but you also get access to advanced features like live migrations and additional security shields for your virtual machines, which makes this particular license type a go-to option for large software development companies, enterprises and platforms that specialize in retail or online services.

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Client Access Licenses

One thing that both Standard and Datacenter editions support is a Client Access License (CALs), which is used to set up additional user profiles that can be used to gain enclosed access to the virtual machines and the server. This is because CALs enable access for both users and devices across a particular network, offering entry to file servers remotely. There are 2 types of CALs — per-user and per-device with each having its own advantages and setbacks.

Generally speaking, per-user licenses are better for smaller organizations with a few users, but per-device CALs are a more suitable option for companies and businesses that have a lot of devices that need remote access.

Advanced Features

The next thing that we want to focus on is the advanced features that both types of licenses can offer as this is the primary difference between them.

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) & Storage Spaces Direct (SBD)

In simple terms, SDN is a networking tactic used to separate the unit that decides how the traffic flows from the unit that forwards the traffic. This allows for a finer tuning of the system, making the network much more flexible, allowing for process automation.

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SBD, on the other hand, is a software-defined storage solution that enables you to combine multiple internal storage drives in one shared storage pool, which can handle higher workloads and offer additional features like automatic data management and caching which allow for scalability and better overall performance.

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While both seem quite impressive, it is important to know that the Standard Windows Server license type doesn’t offer built-in support for SDN nor does it come with SBD. As a matter of fact storage options are limited to the traditional Storage Area Network and Network-Attached Software solutions that primarily work by utilizing the network.

The Datacenter license unlocks the true potential and power of both SDN and SBD, enabling you to manually configure, manage and automate your network. This granular control makes this license much more flexible and customization-friendly.

Storage Replica vs Failover Clustering

The next feature that we want to discuss is storage security. Standard Windows Server licenses offer Storage Replica as a recovery option and it works by simultaneously replicating volumes between different servers.

Datacenter licenses offer Failover Clustering in addition to the Storage Replica option. This clustering ensures a steady stream of constant uptime by automatically transferring the workload to another server should another one fail. This makes Datacenter licenses a perfect option for critical applications that require zero downtime and constant operations at maximum performance and level which can be suitable for large corporations and projects such as online retail stores.

Shielded VMs & Remote Direct Memory Access (RDMA)

Moving on, we want to touch upon features like virtual machine shielding and RDMA. VM shielding encapsulates a number of securing techniques that can protect your server, while RDMA enables direct data transfer between the memory of two systems without having to communicate through the operating systems.

Standard Windows Server licenses don’t come with a shielding option nor do they offer RDMA. Datacenter licenses, on the other hand, come equipped with both, enabling you to create and manage multiple virtual machines, while adding another layer of security.

Management & Security

Next up on our comparison list we have server management and security. While we did cover some aspects in the previous section, it’s important to give a full perspective of both license types and their security features.

Windows Admin Center & PowerShell Tools

Both editions support the browser-based Windows Admin Center, which is primarily used to simplify server management. The Standard license even includes basic PowerShell commands which can allow for scripting automation. The Datacenter edition comes equipped with more modules, which offer greater flexibility and automation that can handle complex deployments.

Networking Protocols & Encryption Differences

Similarly to the Admin Center, both licenses support core networking protocols while also offering BitLocker encryption to further protect data. The Datacenter license does also offer additional security features like Secure Boot, which can be used to prevent unauthorized access while the system is loading. It can also utilize the Encryption Pack to secure network traffic.

Additional Management Tools

In terms of management tools, the standard edition comes with basic server tools like server manager and group policy, whereas the Datacenter type has even more tools like failover cluster manager.

Licensing Models & Pricing

The final thing we want to cover is the licensing model and the difference between both. The standard edition comes with a per-core licensing model, meaning that you will need to get licenses based on the number of physical cores that your server has, which can be quite useful for small-scale applications. The Datacenter Windows Server license type has a per-server licensing model, which enables unlimited core usage for a single physical server, which is more useful for large deployments and virtualization.

Both editions also offer a subscription-based additional licensing like Office 365 as well as other software licenses which can be bought through a single purchase.

The next point that many people raise is whether it is possible to upgrade from the Standard to the Datacenter edition. The answer is yes, but it requires you to purchase additional per-server licenses, which can be quite expensive.

There are also open licenses available for smaller organizations that come with discounts on per-core and pre-server licenses. Not only that but there is also Volume licensing which can offer more significant discounts and additional benefits like centralized license management.

Which license type should you get?

Overall, the Windows Server Standard edition is suitable for small and medium businesses that don’t require virtualization and have a predefined number of CPU cores. This server type is also perfect for small web servers as well as basic file storage servers that need to be cost-effective.

The datacenter edition is more suitable for large enterprises and businesses that have a complex infrastructure and need to utilize virtualization and remote access. It’s also aimed towards organizations that need high resource availability, additional file security and advanced protection. Due to the additional SDN, SBD and VM shield features, the Datacenter license is the perfect choice for all types of businesses that are looking for consistent performance, stability and scalability that they can benefit from.

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What Is Windows Server?

What Is Windows Server History?

Now that you are familiar with the concept of Windows Server let’s take a look at its history throughout this article.

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1993: Windows NT 3.1 Advanced Server

Microsoft released its Windows NT operating system in two formats: one for workstations and one for servers. The 8-bit operating system had a Hardware Abstraction Layer that provided system stability by blocking applications’ direct access to system hardware.

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1994: Windows NT 3.5 Server

Microsoft updated key network features in this server version and added integrated support for TCP / IP and Winsock. Other network enhancements allow users of operating systems other than Microsoft to access files and applications in the domain.

1995: Windows NT Server 3.51

Microsoft fine-tuned this version to increase performance and reduce the amount of memory required. This server operating system is optimized through its updated network stack to provide faster service to users. Microsoft added more communication support for companies in an environment with Windows NT and NetWare servers so users with a single credit can benefit from both.

1996: Windows NT Server 4.0

Microsoft used the Windows 8 UI for this server operating system version and expanded network protocol capabilities to allow network resources in a broader array of non-Microsoft devices. Key features in this release were the ability to use a server as an Internet information server, now known as the Internet Information Services (IIS).
I you want to know more about what is iis and how it works, read our article.

2000: Windows 2000

Windows 2000 introduced Active Directory, which stores and manages information about network objects, including data, systems, and user services. Active Directory allows administrators to perform various tasks such as configuring a virtual private network, encrypting data, and accessing file sharing on network computers.

Microsoft also introduced several other critical features in this release, including:

2003: Windows Server 2003

Microsoft introduced the Windows Server brand with Windows Server 2003 and promoted its security enhancements on Windows 2000. Microsoft IIS has made the web server feature more difficult and disables default services to reduce deployment opportunities.

Microsoft introduced server roles with this release. The use of Windows Server 2003 is to allow administrators to assign a specific function, such as a domain controller or DNS server, to a server.

This release’s other new features include enhanced encryption, firewall, more network address support (NAT), and Volume Shadow Copy Service.

Windows Server 2003 had four versions: Standard, Enterprise, Datacenter, and Web.

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2005: Windows Server 2003 R2

Instead of the version number, Microsoft started using R2. Organizations had to purchase a new windows server license to use the new server operating system. Still, this version did not need to be upgraded, and R2 releases used client access licenses (CALs) of the previous server version.

This release has improved security and safety features in Windows Server 2003.

2008: Windows Server 2008

2009: Windows Server 2008 R2

Microsoft used its Windows 7 kernel for the operating system and improved its scalability and accessibility features.

Microsoft has expanded Active Directory rules and features to improve user account editing and more node control. The company also updated Terminal Services and reinstalled Remote Desktop Services (RDS).

New features in the server version of Windows 2009 include BranchCache and DirectAccess, improving users’ remote use.

Like the previous version, this server operating system shares some of the management and security features used in the Windows Vista client operating system. Windows Server 2008 R2 changes from a 32-bit operating system to a 64-bit version.

2012: Windows Server 2012

And what about Windows Server 2012? Microsoft embedded several cloud features for Windows Server 2012, as far as Cloud OS is concerned. The company has also made significant updates to its operating system storage infrastructure and Hyper-V virtualization platform.

New features notable in this release include Hyper-V Virtual Switch, Replica Hyper-V, storage, and ReFS file system.

This version of Windows Server was released in four versions: Essentials, Foundation, Standard, and Datacenter.

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2013: Windows Server 2012 R2

Microsoft Windows Server 2013 R2 has undergone several changes, including significant updates to virtualization, storage, networking, information security, and web services.

New features include:

• Desired State Configuration / DSC was built on PowerShell to prevent configuration crashes and maintain compatibility across enterprise devices.

• The addition of multiple storages to the storage space enhances the mechanical movement of commonly used data blocks to solid-state storage.

• Folders allow users to retrieve and save company files on work and personal devices.

2016: Windows Server 2016

Microsoft has come close to the cloud with new features in this release. Microsoft introduced the Nano Server, a minimal server-side option to increase security by reducing the attack vector.

Another security issue is the new Hyper-V shielded VM feature that uses encryption to prevent data damage in the VM.

Network Controller is a critical new network feature that allows administrators to manage switches, subnets, and other virtual and physical network devices.

This server operating system is available in standard versions of the Datacenter. Windows Server 2016 Standard Edition does not have advanced features in virtualization, storage, and networking.

2017: Semi-Annual Channel and Long-Term Servicing Channel releases

In June 2017, Microsoft announced dividing the windows server into two channels: the Semi-Annual Channel (SAC) and the Long Term Service Channel (LTSC).

The LTSC naming convention will maintain the Windows Server YYYY format. (Such as Windows Server 2016). While the SAC release follows the Windows version of the YYMM server version. Microsoft released its first version of SAC, Windows Server 17.9, in October 2017.

2019: Windows Server 2019

Windows Server 2019 is the latest version of Microsoft’s server operating system and is part of the Windows NT operating system family. Windows Server 2019 is an operating system that connects to Azure locally, adds additional layers of security, and helps you modernize your applications and infrastructure.

Windows Server 2019 was introduced on March 20, 2018, and the first version of Windows preview was released the same day. But it was released for public access on October 1, 2018.

Windows Server 2019 has the following new features:

Other graphical elements from Windows 7 and later:

• Storage Spaces Direct

• Storage Migration Service

• Storage Replica

• System Insights
  If you need more details, don’t miss this article 

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Windows Server

Windows Server (formerly Windows NT Server) is a brand name for server-oriented releases of the Windows NT operating system (OS) that have been developed by Microsoft since 1993. The first release under this brand name is Windows NT 3.1 Advanced Server, an edition of Windows NT 3.1. With the release of Windows Server 2003, Microsoft started releasing new versions under the name Windows Server. The latest release of Windows NT under the Windows Server brand is Windows Server 2025.^[2]

Microsoft’s history of developing operating systems for servers goes back to Windows NT 3.1 Advanced Server. Windows 2000 Server is the first release to include Active Directory, DNS Server, DHCP Server, and Group Policy.

History

Windows NT Server 3.x

Windows NT 3.1 Advanced Server was released on July 27, 1993^{[citation needed]} as an edition of Windows NT 3.1, an operating system aimed towards business and server use. As with its Workstation counterpart, Windows NT 3.1 Advanced Server was a 32 bit rewrite of the Windows kernel that retained a similar use interface to Windows 3.1. Unlike the latter, however, Windows NT 3.1 Advanced Server was a complete operating system that did not need to be run from DOS. Windows NT 3.1 Advanced Server, like its Workstation counterpart, featured new features such as multiuser support and preemptive multitasking.^[3]
In 1994, Microsoft released Windows NT Server 3.5. It introduced TCP/IP and Winsock support integrated into the operating system, alongside the ability to use FTP. It also supported VFAT.^{[citation needed]}

In 1995, Microsoft released Windows NT Server 3.51, an update to Windows NT Server 3.5, which added NTFS compression and support for the PowerPC architecture.^{[citation needed]}

Windows NT Server 4.0

In 1996, Microsoft released Windows NT Server 4.0. It added the new user interface introduced in Windows 95 the previous year. In addition, it dropped support for the PowerPC, Alpha, and MIPS architectures. Microsoft updated Winsock to version 2 and IIS 2.0 and FrontPage are included.^{[citation needed]}

Windows 2000 Server

Windows Server 2003

Windows Server 2003 is based on a modified version of Windows XP.

Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2

Windows Server 2008 is based on Windows Vista SP1, while Windows Server 2008 R2 is based on Windows 7.

Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2

Windows Server 2012 is based on Windows 8, while Windows Server 2012 R2 is based on Windows 8.1.

Windows Server 2016, 2019 and 2022

These versions of Windows Server are all based on Windows 10. Windows Server 2016 is based on Windows 10, version 1607, Windows Server 2019 is based on Windows 10, version 1809 and Windows Server 2022 is based on a modified version of Windows 10, version 21H2.

Windows Server 2025

This version of Windows Server is based on Windows 11. Windows Server 2025 is based on Windows 11, version 24H2.^[4]

Members

Main releases

Main releases include:

• Windows NT 3.1 Advanced Server (July 27, 1993)
• Windows NT Server 3.5 (September 21, 1994)
• Windows NT Server 3.51 (May 30, 1995)

• Windows NT 4.0 Server (August 24, 1996)
• Windows 2000 Server (December 15, 1999)
• Windows Server 2003 (April 24, 2003)^[5]
• Windows Server 2003 R2 (December 6, 2005)^[6]
• Windows Server 2008 (February 27, 2008)^[7]
• Windows Server 2008 R2 (October 22, 2009)^[8]
• Windows Server 2012 (September 4, 2012)^[9]
• Windows Server 2012 R2 (October 17, 2013)^[10]
• Windows Server 2016 (October 12, 2016)^[11]
• Windows Server 2019 (October 2, 2018)^[12]
• Windows Server 2022 (August 18, 2021)^[13]
• Windows Server 2025 (November 1, 2024)^[14]

Traditionally, Microsoft supports Windows Server for 10 years, with five years of mainstream support and an additional five years of extended support. These releases also offer a complete desktop experience. Starting with Windows Server 2008, Server Core and Nano Server configurations were made available to reduce the OS footprint.^[15][16] Between 2015 and 2021, Microsoft referred to these releases as «long-term support» releases to set them apart from semi-annual releases (see below.)

For sixteen years, Microsoft released a major version of Windows Server every four years, with one minor version released two years after a major release. The minor versions had an «R2» suffix in their names. In October 2018, Microsoft broke this tradition with the release of Windows Server 2019, which would have been «Windows Server 2016 R2». Windows Server 2022 is also a minor upgrade over its predecessor.^[17][18]

Branded releases

Certain editions of Windows Server have a customized name:

• Windows Storage Server (editions of Windows Server 2003 through 2016; editions of Windows Server IoT 2019 and its successors)^[19][20][21]
• Windows HPC Server 2008
• Windows HPC Server 2008 R2
• Windows Home Server (an edition of Windows Server 2003)
• Windows Home Server 2011 (an edition of Windows Server 2008 R2)
• Hyper-V Server (a discontinued,^[22] freeware edition of Windows Server 2008 through 2019)^[23]
• Windows MultiPoint Server
• Windows Server Essentials^[24][25]
• Windows Essential Business Server (discontinued)^[26]
• Azure Stack HCI (an edition of Windows Server 2019 and later)^[27]

Semi-Annual releases (discontinued)

Following the release of Windows Server 2016, Microsoft attempted to mirror the lifecycle of Windows 10 in the Windows Server family, releasing new versions twice a year which were supported for 18 months. These semi-annual versions were only available as part of Microsoft subscription services, including Software Assurance, Azure Marketplace, and Visual Studio subscriptions,^[28] until their discontinuation in July 2021.^[29][28]

The semi-annual releases do not include any desktop environments. Instead, they are restricted to the Nano Server configuration installed in a Docker container,^[16][28] and the Server Core configuration, licensed only to serve as a container host.^[16][28]

Semi-Annual releases include:^[30]

• Windows Server, version 1709 (unsupported as of April 9, 2019; 6 years ago)
• Windows Server, version 1803 (unsupported as of November 12, 2019; 5 years ago)
• Windows Server, version 1809 (unsupported as of November 10, 2020; 4 years ago)
• Windows Server, version 1903 (unsupported as of December 8, 2020; 4 years ago)
• Windows Server, version 1909 (unsupported as of May 11, 2021; 3 years ago)
• Windows Server, version 2004 (unsupported as of December 14, 2021; 3 years ago)
• Windows Server, version 20H2 (unsupported as of August 9, 2022; 2 years ago)^{[31][32][33][34]}

Annual releases

The Annual Channel was first announced in July 2023, with the first version being released on September the same year. Unlike the Semi-Annual releases, each Annual Channel release would receive six months of extended support in addition to the 18 months of regular support. Annual releases are made available every twelve months, hence the name. Datacenter is the only edition available.

Annual releases include:^[35]

• Windows Server, version 23H2

See also

• List of Microsoft Windows versions
• Microsoft Servers
• Linux range of use § Servers, mainframes and supercomputers
• NetWare
• Open Enterprise Server

References

External links

• Official website