Windows Server Timeline

Windows Server 2019, released in Nov. 2018, is the most recent version of Windows Server available through the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC). Windows Server 2016, released in Oct. 2016, is also supported in the LTSC. Both Windows Server 2019 and 2016 offer Desktop Experience (“Full”) and Server Core installation modes. LTSC versions of Windows Server are the recommended option for traditional infrastructure roles and hosting on-premises enterprise software, such as SQL Server, Exchange Server, and SharePoint Server. They provide five years of Mainstream support and five years of Extended support and do not require or offer biannual feature updates.

Windows Server 2004 (also called “20H1”), released in May 2020, is the most recent version of Windows Server available through the Semi-Annual Channel (SAC). Windows Server 2004 offers a Server Core installation mode and is also available as a container base image with Nano Server or Server Core. The next SAC version is likely to be Windows Server 2009 (“20H2”) with general availability in the second half of 2020. SAC versions of Windows Server include 18 months of support. They do not include the Desktop Experience or data center roles supported by LTSC versions of Windows Server and are recommended solely for container-based application development and hosting scenarios.