January 26, 2024 at 03:02PM
Microsoft has released Windows Server Insider Preview 26040, the first build for Windows Server 2025 in its Insider program. It includes the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) Preview with new features and official branding. The build introduces SMB over QUIC alternative ports and brings changes to flighting for Windows Server insiders. Registered Insiders can download the preview build.
From the meeting notes, the key takeaways are:
1. Microsoft has released Windows Server Insider Preview 26040, the first Windows Server 2025 build for admins enrolled in its Windows Insider program.
2. This build is the first preview for the next Windows Server Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) and includes both the Desktop Experience and Server Core installation options for Datacenter and Standard editions, as well as Annual Channel for Container Host and Azure Edition (for VM evaluation only).
3. It introduces SMB over QUIC alternative ports, allowing Windows admins to switch from using the default SMB over QUIC UDP/443 port to a port of their choice.
4. Microsoft has resumed the Windows Server Insider program after the winter break and has introduced new features and official branding for Windows Server 2025.
5. Windows Server flighting for insiders has been launched, allowing admins to install new Insider builds automatically via Windows Update, and Microsoft plans to expand Windows Server Insider flighting with additional Insider channels, similar to Windows 11.
6. Windows Server with Desktop Experience will receive the same ‘Email & Accounts’ experience as Windows 11, increased coverage for Bluetooth devices, and the Wi-Fi Wireless LAN service enabled by default for Edge scenarios.
7. Registered Insiders can download ISO and VHDX images for this Windows Server 2025 preview build, and more information about Windows Server 2025 Insider builds, including Server Standard and Datacenter keys, is available on the Windows Insiders for Business portal.
Let me know if you need further details on any specific point.