Windows Server 2019 is the ninth version of the Windows Server operating system developed by Microsoft. It is the version published before Windows Server 2022. Windows Server 2019 has been out for a while and is slowly reaching the end of Microsoft’s support. In this article you can read more about the end-of-life of Windows Server 2019 and examine the various aspects affected by the end of support.
When will Microsoft’ support for Windows Server 2019 end?
Windows Server 2019 was released on November 13th, 2019. Windows Server 2019 receives two different supports. Namely, mainstream and extended support. The mainstream support recently ended on January 9, 2024. Since Microsoft’s mainstream support has expired, Windows Server 2019 no longer receives updates such as new features or overall improvements. The extended support for Windows Server 2019, however, will end five years later on January 9th, 2029. Once the mainstream support expires, Windows Server 2019 will automatically switch to extended support. This merely covers security updates and overall protection for the server.
Windows Server 2019: End of life
When Microsoft no longer provides extended support for a product, it has reached the phase end of life. Windows Server 2019 has not yet reached its end of life, as it will be supported through Microsoft’s extended support until January 9, 2029. Until then, Windows Server 2019 will only receive security updates. Nevertheless, the mainstream support for Windows Server 2019 has ended. Companies that currently use Windows Server 2019 do not need to upgrade to a newer version just yet, unless they want to take advantage of the latest features and improvements. Upgrading to Windows Server 2022, can however simplify the overall work process. Here you can find out more about the server requirements for Windows Server 2022.
Windows Server 2019: Problems
Currently, Windows Server 2019 poses no risks because it is still supported by Microsoft’s extended support. This applies to all versions, including Standard and Datacenter. The extended support will last until January 9, 2029. After this date, companies that still use Windows Server 2022 might face some issues. For example, difficult server patching, increased risk of cyber-attacks, and lack of technical support.
As previously stated, Microsoft’s mainstream support for Windows Server 2019 already expired, therefore there will be no new features or overall improvements added to the server. If you want to use newer features and wish to receive overall updates, you could consider upgrading to Windows Server 2022.
Which Windows Server editions are still supported?
In addition to Windows Server 2019, Microsoft supports the editions Windows Server 2016 and Windows Server 2022. For Windows Server 2016, Microsoft only offers extended support until January 12, 2027. Until then, Windows Server 2016 will only receive bug fixes, security improvements, and technical support.
As the most recent version, Windows Server 2022 still receives both mainstream and extended support from Microsoft. Although the name indicates 2022, Windows Server 2022 was released on August 18, 2021. Its mainstream support lasts approximately five years from the date of release and will end on October 13, 2026. Until then, Windows Server 2022 will receive new updates, features and enhancements.
Read more about the differences between Windows Server 2022 Essentials vs Standard.
Microsoft’s Principal PM Manager, Jeff Woolsey, has announced via the official forum that work is underway on Windows Server 2025. In doing so, he has also mentioned what exactly is new in the upcoming Windows Server 2025 version. For example, there will be exclusive features such as SMB over QUIC, Hotpatching, AI-based management, an improved functional level AD and security improvements. In the article all we know so far about Windows Server 2025 we go into more depth about Windows Server 2025, its release, what to expect, Windows Server vNext and the End of Life.
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