Microsoft: Windows Server automatically updated to version 2025

Microsoft has confirmed that some Windows servers have apparently been automatically updated to the new Windows Server 2025. Microsoft has already been able to solve the problem in some cases, but in other cases third-party manufacturers are responsible. In addition, the Windows 11-24H2 update can now be offered on other systems.

In the Windows Release Health Notes for Server 2025, Microsoft writes that Server 2025 has been marked as an optional upgrade for Windows Server 2019 and 2022 within the Windows Update system. As a result, two scenarios have been observed: A banner with the upgrade offer was displayed in the "Settings" under "Windows Update". It is intended for organizations that want to perform an in-place upgrade – This has since been resolved.

Third-party software migrates automatically

Other devices have automatically upgraded to Windows Server 2025 that use unspecified third-party products to manage software updates for clients and servers. Admins should check here whether the third-party software is configured in such a way that it does not automatically install feature updates, i.e. such as from Windows 11 23H2 to 24H2. Microsoft is also giving the developers of such patch management systems a clear rap on the knuckles.

The Windows Server 2025 update has been released as an optional update. The upgrade classification is "DeploymentAction=OptionalInstallation". Feature update metadata must be interpreted as "optional" and not "recommended". "Microsoft works with third-party vendors to optimize best practices and recommended procedures," the developers write.

It remains unclear to what extent the fact that Microsoft has made the Windows Server 2025 feature update generally available with the KB number KB5044284, which is the same number as the Windows 11-24H2 feature update, plays into this. However, this could possibly cause confusion in patch management. It is also interesting to note that Microsoft considers Server 2025 to be a feature update for older Windows Server versions. This once again confirms the impression that the feature updates have had to be considered as an actual new Windows version for some years now. Future updates for Windows 11 24H2 and Windows Server 2025 should also have the same KB number, but different release notes pages and links.

Migration stopper bug for Windows 11 24H2 fixed

Following the release of the Windows 11 24H2 feature update, a number of problems became known that prompted Microsoft not to offer the upgrade on certain PC configurations. These included an installed Voicemeeter app that could provoke a blue screen with an error message regarding "MEMORY MANAGEMENT". According to the Windows Release Health note, the installation of the current Voicemeeter versions 1.1.1.8, 2.1.1.8 or 3.1.1.8 or newer, which include the driver vbvoicemeetervaio64_win10.sys in version 3.3.1.9 or higher, should solve the problem. The upgrade blockade should be resolved no later than 48 hours after this update. If this does not work, those affected should contact the manufacturer VB-Audio for further assistance.

Microsoft officially released Windows Server on November 1. Without much fanfare, the Redmond-based company first announced the new version in the Windows Release Health Notes and on Monday of the following week in the Windows Message Center. The server comes with some interesting new functions for IT managers. For example, the hot patch capability enables Windows Server to run for up to 90 days without rebooting, even in on-premises installations. However, quarterly reboots after patch days should still take place in order to ensure a tidy and reliable state.

(dmk)