Servicing Changes for Windows Server 2016

Changes to the Windows Server 2016 release and servicing model in June 2017 might make releases more predictable. This illustration shows anticipated release and retirement dates for Windows Server, under both the existing servicing model (branches) and a new servicing model (channels). The transition to the new model will start in Sept. 2017.

Windows Server 2016 can be deployed in one of three installation modes: Desktop Experience, which provides a full Windows desktop and web browser; Server Core, which provides a full Win32 environment but does not include the Windows shell; and Nano Server, a minimal installation that must be managed remotely.

Under the original servicing model, two servicing branches were applicable to Windows Server 2016: the Long-Term Servicing Branch (LTSB) and the Current Branch for Business (CBB). Windows Server 2016 in Desktop Experience and Server Core installation modes were serviced solely under the LTSB, with releases eligible for security updates and support for a minimum of 10 years, and new LTSB releases expected every two to three years. Nano Server was serviced solely under the CBB, which was expected to deliver two to three feature releases a year and offer security and stability updates for the two most recent releases, making each release eligible for security updates for roughly 12 months.