Microsoft has launched Windows Server Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) Preview build 25977. This latest build is now made available for download in ISO form on the Windows Server Insider website. It is accompanied by a Virtual Hard Disk (VHDX) version, earmarking Microsoft's efforts to enhance access and functionality.
Unique Features and Selected Availability
The new build includes the much-awaited Windows 11 Desktop Experience and also incorporates a Server Core installation option for Datacenter and Standard edition categories. In an interesting turn, the Azure Edition is not universally available but limited to usage through virtual machines.
This latest release brings about conjectures related to the future roadmap of Windows. Currently, the Windows Server Preview shares the same build number as Windows 11 Insider Canary channel. If these factors retain compatibility, a new Server version might not be revealed till 2024, coinciding with the expected release of Windows 12.
For preview builds, customers can use specific keys that Microsoft has validated. Additionally, code debugging symbols are available on the public symbol server, as detailed on Microsoft's symbol server guidance. Notably, the current Windows Server Preview build holds an expiration date of September 15, 2024.
Windows, Office, and other services have a version called Microsoft LTSC, which stands for Long-Term Servicing Channel. This version does not get any new features, but only gets updates for security and quality. It is meant for devices that need to be stable and consistent for a long time, such as machines used in medicine, industry, or air traffic control. Microsoft LTSC has a 10-year support period and some new features, such as a dark mode option, better accessibility, and faster performance.
