Choosing the Right Servicing Channel for Windows Server 2019
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Servicing Channels in Windows Server 2019
- Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)
- Semi-Annual Channel (SAC)
- Features of Long-Term Servicing Channel
- Features of Semi-Annual Channel
- Pros and Cons of Long-Term Servicing Channel
- Pros and Cons of Semi-Annual Channel
- Which Servicing Channel is Right for You?
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Servicing Channel for Windows Server 2019
- Differences Between Windows 10 and Windows Server 2019 Servicing Channels
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Servicing Channels in Windows Server 2019
When licensing Windows Server 2019, you must choose a servicing channel. Two primary categories include the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) and the Semi-Annual Channel (SAC). These channels were also present in previous versions of Windows, including Windows Server 2012 and 2016.
Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)
With the Long-Term Servicing Channel, a new version of Windows is released every two to three years. You are entitled to five years of mainstream support and can purchase five years of extended support, effectively giving you 10 years of support overall.
This channel is ideal for machines with a dedicated purpose, such as cash registers, ATM machines, and systems that run MRI or CT scans. Operating systems for these machines may be either server or client operating systems. Upgrading the operating system every few months is unnecessary, so the long-term servicing channel is the best choice.
You will receive all security updates and traditional non-security updates during the 10-year support period, but will not receive any new features or functionality.
Semi-Annual Channel (SAC)
The Semi-Annual Channel is intended for organizations that require innovation and want to take AdVantage of new operating system capabilities as soon as they are released. With this channel, you will receive new releases twice a year, typically in the spring and fall.
Each release is supported for 18 months from the date of initial release, which means you must keep up with new releases regularly. Features of SAC include improvements to containers, microservices, and other enhancements that will be defined in the future.
Features of Long-Term Servicing Channel
The Long-Term Servicing Channel is best suited for systems that require a dedicated purpose and a long lifespan. Some features of this channel include:
- New versions of Windows are released every two to three years
- Mainstream support lasts five years, with the option to purchase five more years of extended support
- Security updates and traditional non-security updates are provided during the support period
- No new features or functionality are added during the support period
Features of Semi-Annual Channel
The Semi-Annual Channel is intended for organizations that require innovation and want to take advantage of new features and functionality as soon as they are released. Some features of this channel include:
- New releases are available twice a year, in the spring and fall
- Each release is supported for 18 months from the date of initial release
- Features include improvements to containers, microservices, and other enhancements
Pros and Cons of Long-Term Servicing Channel
Pros
- Best suited for systems with a dedicated purpose and long lifespan
- Longer support period of up to 10 years
- Only security and traditional non-security updates are provided, reducing the risk of potential issues caused by new features or functionality
Cons
- No new features or functionality are added during the support period, which may limit innovation
- Limited support for new hardware or software
Pros and Cons of Semi-Annual Channel
Pros
- Provides access to new features and functionality as soon as they are released
- Regular updates help ensure compatibility with the latest software and hardware
- Allows for greater innovation and flexibility
Cons
- Shorter support period of 18 months
- Frequent updates may lead to compatibility issues with existing software and hardware
Which Servicing Channel is Right for You?
The right servicing channel for you depends on your organization's specific needs and requirements. If your systems have a dedicated purpose and must remain stable and supported for a long period, the Long-Term Servicing Channel may be the best choice. On the other HAND, if you require access to new features and functionality and can keep up with frequent updates, the Semi-Annual Channel may be a better fit.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Servicing Channel for Windows Server 2019
Several factors should be taken into account when choosing a servicing channel for Windows Server 2019, including:
- The specific needs and requirements of your organization
- The intended lifespan of your systems
- Your level of comfort with frequent updates
- Your level of comfort with potentially breaking changes caused by new features or functionality
- Your budget and available resources
Differences Between Windows 10 and Windows Server 2019 Servicing Channels
The servicing channels for Windows 10 and Windows Server 2019 are similar in many ways, but there are some key differences to keep in mind. Windows 10 has several servicing channels, including the Long-Term Servicing Channel, Semi-Annual Channel (Targeted), and Semi-Annual Channel. The Long-Term Servicing Channel is similar to the Long-Term Servicing Channel for Windows Server 2019 in that it provides long-term support and stability. The Semi-Annual Channel (Targeted) is similar to the Semi-Annual Channel for Windows Server 2019, providing access to new features and functionality as soon as they are released. However, updates for the Semi-Annual Channel (Targeted) are considered to be in a testing phase and may contain bugs or other issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I switch between servicing channels after choosing one?
A: Yes, you can switch between servicing channels, but it is not recommended. Switching between servicing channels may be time-consuming, difficult, and may require a complete reinstallation of the operating system.
Q: Will I receive any new features or functionality with the Long-Term Servicing Channel?
A: No, the Long-Term Servicing Channel only provides security updates and traditional non-security updates during the support period. No new features or functionality will be added.
Q: Can I mix and match servicing channels for different systems in my organization?
A: Yes, you can choose different servicing channels for different systems in your organization, depending on your specific needs and requirements.
Q: What happens after the support period ends for my chosen servicing channel?
A: After the support period ends, you will no longer receive security updates or traditional non-security updates for your operating system. It is recommended that you upgrade to a newer version of Windows Server at that time.