Windows Server 2019 Generally Available

• Organizations using Windows Sever to run hyper-converged infrastructure or containerized applications should look at Windows Server 2019.
• An initial recall followed by a re-release suggests caution and extra testing are needed for this version.
• Customers without Software Assurance will have to purchase new, more expensive CALs.

Windows Server 2019, the latest Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) version of Windows Server, became available on Nov. 13, 2018, and contains new features and improvements that focus primarily on data-center roles, security, and containers.

Microsoft recommends that LTSC versions of Windows Server be used for most infrastructure and data-center roles, but systems running containerized applications and container hosting should use Semi-Annual Channel (SAC) versions. SAC versions also get some new features before LTSC versions. (For more on the LTSC and SAC, see the chart “Windows Server 2019 Servicing by Install Modes“.)

Data Center and HCI

The most significant updates in Windows Server 2019 enhance functionality in large data-center environments, particularly in hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI). They also improve Windows Server as an alternative to VMware products and dedicated storage and networking devices in this role.