Windows users are regularly faced with the question: do we stay with the old Windows Server – or is it worth making the jump to the new one? Windows Server products have a short release cycle, but it still makes sense to keep up. With the current Windows Server 2022, Microsoft has created a stable, security-oriented foundation for classic on-premises and hybrid environments.

The following blog entry takes a closer look at what Windows Server 2022 has to offer, what the benefits are and what risks you should be aware of.

What is Windows Server 2022?

Windows Server 2022 is the latest Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) release from Microsoft. Released in August 2021, it introduces a wide range of improvements, enhancing security, performance, and hybrid cloud integration.

• Secured-core Server” is an important concept that describes a security approach linking hardware, firmware, and the operating system more closely.
• This version keeps the meaning intact while shifting the structure to active voice. Let me know if you need more refinements! Anyone working according to zero-trust principles will find a solid foundation here.
• There have also been improvements in terms of network performance: Microsoft is responding to modern data traffic requirements with “UDP Performance Enhancements” and “TCP HyStart++”.
• Windows Server 2022 has also been optimized for hybrid scenarios – in other words, connecting to Azure is much easier. This makes it exciting for companies that want to gradually expand their IT into the cloud without having to rebuild everything at once.

What are the advantages of Window server 2022?

Windows Server 2022 brings a whole range of improvements that show one thing above all: Microsoft has listened carefully to what companies really need today.

• There is a clear focus on security – with “Secured-core Server” you get a robust security architecture that makes attacks at firmware level much more difficult. A real plus point for organizations with high compliance requirements.
• A lot has also been done in the area of performance. Particularly interesting: the optimized network performance thanks to functions such as TCP HyStart++ and RACK. What sounds technical actually ensures faster, more stable data traffic in practice – a real benefit, especially in virtualized environments or when accessing large amounts of data.
• Added to this is the improved Azure integration. Anyone running or planning hybrid scenarios will benefit from features such as Azure Arc or Storage Migration Services, which significantly simplify the path to the cloud. So it’s no longer just about local or cloud – it’s about both, flexible and scalable.
• Last but not least: Windows Server 2022 is an LTSC release. This means ten years of support. An important argument for many companies when it comes to planning security.

In short: Windows Server 2022 is not spectacular, but it is well thought out – and that makes it strong.

What are the risks of the update?

It all sounds good at first – but of course Windows Server 2022 also has challenges. It starts with the hardware:

• Many of the security functions, such as the “secured core” approach, require relatively up-to-date hardware. Anyone still using older servers will therefore not be able to use all the features – or will be faced with the question of whether a hardware upgrade needs to be planned.
• There is also potential for friction in terms of compatibility. Older applications or specially developed software solutions can cause problems under the new server operating system. In plain language: without prior testing, a changeover can quickly mean more frustration than progress.
• Another issue is the learning curve. Although the user interface is familiar, hybrid scenarios in particular – i.e. the connection to Azure – require know-how. Those who are not prepared here are wasting potential or risking security gaps.

And last but not least: Even an LTSC release such as Windows Server 2022 is not future-proof. Anyone investing today should keep an eye on how Microsoft’s roadmap develops – and whether it makes more sense in the medium term to switch to newer models such as Windows Server 2023 or even the Azure-based approach.

Extended Security Updates for Windows Server

When support for a Windows server version expires, things quickly become critical – because without security updates, the risk of attacks increases massively. This is exactly where Extended Security Updates (ESUs) come into play. They are Microsoft’s way of giving companies more time if a direct upgrade to a newer version is not (yet) possible.

In concrete terms, this means that even after the official end of support—such as for Windows Server 2012 R2—Microsoft still provides security patches through the ESU programs. However, these updates are subject to a charge, become more expensive every year and only offer security-relevant updates – no new functions, no bug fixing.

Interestingly, those who operate their servers via Azure or connect them locally via Azure Arc even receive these extended security updates free of charge – a clear incentive to move towards the hybrid cloud.

But: ESUs are not a permanent solution. They provide some breathing space, but are ultimately just a band-aid. If you want to be secure and efficient in the long term, there is no way around an upgrade – to Windows Server 2022 or 2023, for example.

In short: ESUs can help, but they are plan B – not plan A. If you think strategically, you can use the time gained to take the next real step.

Conclusion: Is it worth updating to Windows Server 2022?

Windows Server 2022 is a solid, well thought-out release – especially for companies that rely on stability, security and long-term support. Anyone still working with older versions such as 2012 R2 will hardly be able to avoid an upgrade in the medium term. The technical improvements, modern security architecture and better Azure integration speak for themselves: a future-proof IT infrastructure is possible here – without having to turn everything inside out.

But if you want to be at the forefront, you should also keep an eye on Windows Server 2023. The new version will bring additional features, especially for containerization and automation. However, it is currently only available via the semi-annual channel – so it’s more for dynamic environments with a fast update cycle.

The long-term trend is already clear: hybrid and cloud scenarios are becoming increasingly important. Microsoft is focusing on Azure-first – and this will intensify in the coming years. So anyone planning strategically should not just look ahead to the next upgrade, but think a few steps ahead. Windows Server 2022 is therefore a good next step. But just a step – not the goal. The future is hybrid, flexible and cloud-based. And companies that recognize this have the opportunity to use this opportunity and change to their advantage.