Microsoft: Updates for Windows 11 and Server 2025 to be separated

Starting with the upcoming patch day on January 13, 2026, Microsoft intends to offer updates for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 on one hand, and Windows Server 2025 on the other, with separate designations, meaning different KB numbers. Microsoft already announced this in December in the announcement section of the December updates for Windows Server 2025. This step initially seems somewhat unusual given that the mentioned systems use the same codebase. Only the amount of installed and enabled features varies depending on the product and version.

However, this way Microsoft can not only differentiate in the documentation as before, but also, in the long run, compile update packages specifically for desktop or server. While the descriptions of the updates for Server 2025 and for the desktop systems 24H2 and 25H2 have been different, the packages themselves are identical and thus also the same size. With the change, Microsoft will, for example, be able to avoid providing a large amount of new code for Windows 11's Copilot components with every update for the server, which is then not needed during installation.

The whole thing is primarily relevant for corporate admins who will find separate entries for Windows 11 and Server 2025 in the future. Whether Microsoft will then also take the opportunity to streamline updates remains to be seen.

The change in KB numbers should not be confused with the changes in update titles from last fall. Microsoft significantly shortened the lengthy update names at the end of October, which was met with little enthusiasm, especially among admins. The manufacturer retreated a bit in mid-November; the update name has since at least included the date as well as the KB and build number.

(jss)