Windows Server 2016 Servicing Plans Outlined

Volume licensing customers can expect new options for how updates, fixes, and new features will be made available for Windows Server 2016 when it arrives on Oct. 1, 2016. The two available models for delivering security and feature updates to Windows Server 2016 mimic the two business-centric servicing models of Windows 10. These servicing models depend on the installation mode of the server OS, so organizations will have to compare and contrast the functionality required for a given server role with the servicing model available for it.

Two Windows Server 2016 Servicing Branches

Windows Server 2016 will offer two models for how the OS is released and serviced: Long-Term Servicing Branch (LTSB) and Current Branch for Business (CBB). The install mode of the OS that is chosen will define which servicing branch is available and will determine when Windows Server security updates, new features, and major releases will become available for the server, as well as when organizations must deploy updates to the server for it to remain eligible for Microsoft product support. The two options are identical for the Standard and Datacenter editions of Windows Server 2016. (For a breakdown of how each installation mode of Windows Server 2016 can be updated, see the chart “Windows Server 2016 Servicing by Install Mode“.)