Windows Server Lifecycle Dates
Complete reference guide for Windows Server support timelines including mainstream support, extended support, and ESU dates for versions 2008-2025.
Windows Server Support Dates
| Version | Release Date | Mainstream End | Extended End | ESU End | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows Server 2025 | Nov 2024 | Oct 2029 | Oct 2034 | TBD | Current |
| Windows Server 2022 | Aug 2021 | Oct 13, 2026 | Oct 14, 2031 | TBD | Mainstream |
| Windows Server 2019 | Nov 2018 | Jan 9, 2024 | Jan 9, 2029 | Jan 2032 | Extended |
| Windows Server 2016 | Oct 2016 | Jan 11, 2022 | Jan 12, 2027 | Jan 2030 | Extended |
| Windows Server 2012 R2 | Nov 2013 | Oct 9, 2018 | Oct 10, 2023 | Oct 13, 2026 | ESU Only |
| Windows Server 2012 | Sep 2012 | Oct 9, 2018 | Oct 10, 2023 | Oct 13, 2026 | ESU Only |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 | Oct 2009 | Jan 13, 2015 | Jan 14, 2020 | Jan 10, 2023 | End of Life |
| Windows Server 2008 | Feb 2008 | Jan 13, 2015 | Jan 14, 2020 | Jan 10, 2023 | End of Life |
Understanding Windows Server Support Phases
Mainstream Support (5 years): Full support including security updates, bug fixes, feature updates, and design changes. This is when the product receives active development.
Extended Support (5 years): Security updates only. No new features or non-security bug fixes. Free technical support requires a paid support agreement.
Extended Security Updates (ESU): Paid security updates available for up to 3 years after Extended Support ends. Critical and Important security patches only. Free for workloads running in Azure.
Key Dates to Remember
- Windows Server 2016 - Extended Support ends January 12, 2027
- Windows Server 2019 - Now in Extended Support until January 9, 2029
- Windows Server 2022 - Mainstream Support until October 13, 2026
- Windows Server 2012/R2 - Requires ESU purchase for continued security updates
Need Windows Server Licenses?
We supply Windows Server 2022 and 2025 licenses with competitive pricing for UK businesses.
View Windows Server Products