In an announcement released on January 4, Microsoft notified users that Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2 would reach End of Life on October 10. Following the passing of the date, the aforementioned operating systems won’t obtain any security updates, non-security updates, bug fixes, tech support, or any other technical updates.
Meanwhile, Microsoft said it will continue to offer Azure solutions for Windows Server 2012 until three years from the end-of-life date. Users will be able to migrate applications and databases to Azure Virtual Machines and get free Extended Security updates.
While on-premise users will be able to use Azure Arc to obtain automated/scheduled ESU updates and installation.
Additionally, users can switch to Windows Server 2022 or buy Extended Security Updates (ESU). By purchasing ESU, users will get up to three years of security updates.
Note: The plans are renewable on annual basis and end on October 13, 2026.
