BleepingComputer reported on 15 October 2026 that Microsoft has moved Windows Server 2022 from mainstream support to extended support. The change took effect on 13 October 2026. The October 2026 security update is the last one issued under mainstream support. Microsoft says extended support brings monthly security updates at no extra cost until 14 October 2031. Microsoft's lifecycle page lists the Datacenter, Datacenter: Azure Edition, Essentials and Standard editions as covered. Microsoft told admins to plan a move to Windows Server 2025.
The sources do not say which mainstream benefits end now, beyond the last mainstream update. They also disagree on hotpatching, a way of updating the Azure Edition. Microsoft's lifecycle page says it is supported through the end of mainstream support. BleepingComputer says Microsoft has extended it until October 2027. The sources do not explain the gap. BleepingComputer adds that Windows Server 2025 reached general availability in November 2024. Its mainstream support ends in November 2029, and extended support runs to 14 November 2034. Microsoft offers a free 180-day trial.
Teams running Windows Server 2022 now have a fixed date, October 2031, when security updates stop. Anyone planning a move to Server 2025 can test it first with the trial.