Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows Server 2016 on 12 January 2027. Organisations that need extra time can turn to Extended Security Updates (ESU).
Microsoft will release the last security update for Windows Server 2016 on 12 January 2027. From then on, servers running that version will no longer receive monthly updates that protect against new security threats. The end of updates applies to all editions: Datacenter, Essentials, MultiPoint Premium and Standard.
Mainstream support for Windows Server 2016, released in September 2016, ended in January 2022. Now Microsoft is also pointing its customers to the approaching end of this extended support.
Impact on Essentials
On 12 January 2027, Microsoft will also end support for the specific features of Windows Server 2016 Essentials. That includes Remote Web Access and other functionality found only in that edition. According to Microsoft, any Essentials feature that keeps working after that date must be considered unsupported. Administrators can therefore no longer count on the company to fix problems or close vulnerabilities.
Upgrading
Microsoft advises organisations to plan their move to Windows Server 2025. Those who want to try that version first can download a free evaluation version from the Microsoft Evaluation Center, which can be used for 180 days.
Organisations that need more time can sign up for ESU. These Extended Security Updates are available for the Standard and Datacenter editions. For Essentials, MultiPoint Premium and other editions, that is not an option. Administrators of Windows Server 2016 environments have until 12 January 2027 to arrange their migration or request ESU.