**Microsoft** has officially communicated a critical lifecycle update for **Windows Server 2022**. The server operating system, initially launched in September 2021 as a Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) release with a projected 10 years of support, will transition from mainstream support to extended support on October 13, 2026. ### Mainstream Support Concludes According to a **Microsoft** message center update, the security update released in October 2026 will be the final one under mainstream support. Following this date, **Windows Server 2022** will enter its extended support phase. ### Extended Support for Five More Years During the extended support period, which runs until October 14, 2031, **Windows Server 2022** will continue to receive monthly security updates at no additional cost. While this ensures ongoing protection against critical vulnerabilities, it's important to note that mainstream support typically includes non-security updates, incident support, and warranty claims, which will cease. ### Urging Migration to Windows Server 2025 **Microsoft** is now advising customers to upgrade to **Windows Server 2025**, the latest iteration of its server operating system, which became generally available in November 2024. **Windows Server 2025** is positioned as the current LTSC release, offering full mainstream support and new features designed to enhance security, performance, and hybrid cloud capabilities. ### Windows Server 2025 Lifecycle **Windows Server 2025** itself has a defined lifecycle, with mainstream support ending on November 13, 2029, and extended support concluding five years later, on November 14, 2034. Organizations looking to evaluate **Windows Server 2025** before full deployment can access a free 180-day trial through the **Microsoft Evaluation Center**. **Microsoft** emphasizes the importance of early planning and testing for upgrades to ensure a smooth transition and maintain a fully protected and supported environment. ### Related Support Extensions This announcement follows other recent lifecycle updates from **Microsoft**. Last month, **Microsoft** extended **Windows Server 2022** hotpatching until October 2027 for systems running the Datacenter: Azure Edition. Additionally, the company quietly extended the free **Windows 10** Extended Security Updates (**ESU**) program for consumers by an additional year. More recently, **Microsoft** reminded users that **Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016** and the Home and Pro editions of **Windows 11 24H2** will cease receiving updates three months after reaching their respective end-of-support dates. IT professionals can find comprehensive information on **Windows** servicing dates using the Lifecycle Policy search tool and the **Windows** Lifecycle FAQ page. **Microsoft** has also provided a list of products reaching end-of-support or retirement in 2025.