Windows Server build Archives

Winsage

March 17, 2025

Windows 11 will give you another reason to ditch Control Panel, migrates mouse settings

The Settings app in Windows 11 has been evolving over the past four years, with features migrating to a centralized hub. The latest Windows Server Build 26376 introduces new mouse properties, indicating changes for upcoming Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 23H2. These mouse-related settings, previously in the legacy Mouse properties applet, are now integrated into the Settings app but are spread across different sections. Features like Mouse Pointer Trails and customization options are found in the Accessibility section, while hover actions and button configurations are in the Mouse page under Accessibility. The Devices page retains similar options with enhancements. While the integration simplifies navigation by eliminating the need for separate applications, the fragmentation of settings may complicate the user experience for those preferring a consolidated view. Microsoft aims to reduce reliance on the Control Panel in future updates, though excessive changes could lead users back to it.

Winsage

December 8, 2024

Microsoft releases final Windows Server 2025 preview build in 2024

Microsoft has released Windows Server 2025 build 26334 for Windows Insiders, marking the final update for the year, with the next expected in January 2024. This build includes Desktop Experience and Server Core installation options for Datacenter and Standard editions, as well as the Annual Channel for Container Host and Azure Edition for virtual machine evaluation. The branding remains Windows Server 2025 in this preview, and issues reported should reference Windows Server vNext preview. Users enrolled in Server Flighting will receive this build automatically. New features include Windows Defender Application Control for Business (WDAC), which enforces a list of permitted software to minimize the attack surface, and improved accessibility for Windows Admin Center (WAC), allowing installation directly from the Windows Server Desktop for Datacenter or Standard preview users. There are known issues, including a labeling error that may reference Windows 11, which Microsoft plans to fix in a future release. Windows Server build 26334 is valid until September 15, 2025, with specific installation keys provided for Server Standard and Datacenter editions, while no key is required for Azure Edition.

Winsage

October 25, 2024

Windows Server 2025 Insider Preview build 26311 is now available

Microsoft has released Windows Server build 26311 for the Windows Server Insider Program, branding it as Windows Server 2025. The change log for build 26311 is similar to build 26304 and includes the Windows Defender Application Control for Business (WDAC), which enhances security by enforcing a list of authorized software. The Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline Preview allows users to apply over 350 preconfigured security settings categorized by server roles: Domain Controller, Member Server, and Workgroup Member. Known issues include incorrect labeling for the flight, problems with WinPE PowerShell scripts, intermittent upgrade failures from Windows Server 2019 or 2022, issues with archiving event logs, and installation recommendations related to Secure Launch/DRTM. Downloads are available in various formats, but may not be accessible in certain regions due to Microsoft's sales suspension in Russia. The preview is set to expire on September 15, 2025.

Winsage

September 27, 2024

Windows Server build 26296 is out with Windows Admin Center improvements and more

Windows Server Insiders can explore a new preview build, numbered 26296, which introduces enhancements such as the ability to install Windows Admin Center directly from the desktop and access the new Feedback Hub app for Windows Server users. Key features of build 26296 include: - Windows Admin Center (WAC) can be downloaded and installed directly from the Windows Server Desktop for users of the Windows Server 2025 preview. - The new Feedback Hub app is available for Server Desktop users and should automatically update to the latest version. Known issues in this build include: - A Sysprep issue that affects generalizing images. - Confusion with the flighting label that may reference Windows 11. - Problems with the installation of PowerShell in WinPE. - Intermittent upgrade failures for those validating upgrades from Windows Server 2019 or 2022. - An issue with archiving event logs causing the Windows Event Log service to crash. - Recommendations against installing this build if Secure Launch or DRTM code paths are enabled. Links and activation keys for downloading this build are available in the announcement post on the official Tech Community forums.

Winsage

June 28, 2024

Windows Server 2025 Insider Preview 26244 released with just one small change

Microsoft has released the latest Windows Server build, numbered 26244, for participants in the Windows Server Insider Program. This build aligns with the Windows 11 Canary Channel build and carries the Windows Server 2025 branding. The update includes a new account type called delegated Managed Service Account (dMSA) and the removal of a previously listed known issue.