Windows Server 2025 Is Coming: What’s New Compared to 2022, and When Should You Migrate?

Introduction: A New Era of Windows Server Is on the Horizon

As we move through 2025, it’s not just Windows 11 that’s making headlines.

Microsoft is also preparing the release of its next-generation server operating system: Windows Server 2025.

Though still in Insider Preview at the time of writing, Server 2025 is shaping up to be a significant evolution from Windows Server 2022. With major improvements in security, virtualization, and hybrid cloud integration, now is a great time to understand what’s coming—and whether your organization should start preparing for migration.

In this article, we’ll break down the key changes, compare features, and offer practical guidance on when (and why) migrating might make sense for your environment.

What Is Windows Server 2025?

While not officially released, Windows Server 2025 is already available to test through the Windows Insider Program under the code name “vNext.”

Based on current development cycles, Microsoft is expected to release it sometime in late 2025, continuing its three-year release rhythm:

While Server 2022 remains a long-term support version with life left in it, Windows Server 2025 represents a foundational shift toward modern, cloud-aligned infrastructure.

What’s New in Windows Server 2025?

Based on Windows 11 24H2 Core

Unlike Windows Server 2022 (based on Windows 10 21H2), the 2025 version inherits the core architecture of Windows 11 24H2, bringing several deep system-level improvements.

Stronger Security by Design

• Credential Guard Enhancements
  Now more broadly applied to reduce the risk of credential theft.
• Secured-Core Server Standards
  Enhanced hardware-level security, including firmware protection and TPM-based attestation, is expected to be standard.
• TPM 2.0 & Secure Boot Requirements
  These are increasingly emphasized in Server 2025, aligning with modern security compliance.

Network Improvements

• SMB over QUIC Enhancements
  Better performance and reliability for file sharing over firewalls, supporting secure remote access without VPNs.
• TLS 1.3 as Default
  For improved security and performance in encrypted communications.

Virtualization & Container Updates

• Hyper-V Enhancements
  Better support for virtual TPM and nested virtualization.
• WSL Integration
  Partial Windows Subsystem for Linux functionality helps streamline hybrid workloads.
• Azure Hybrid Features
  Deeper integration with Azure Stack HCI and other cloud-native services.

Windows Server 2022 vs 2025: Feature Comparison

This comparison highlights how Server 2025 is more than a routine upgrade—it’s an evolution toward secure, hybrid-native infrastructure built for the next decade.

Who Should Consider Migrating?

Of course, not every organization needs to jump to Windows Server 2025 the moment it launches.

But depending on your infrastructure goals and risk posture, preparing early may save time and cost later.

Recommended for:

• Organizations planning major infrastructure refreshes in 2026 or beyond
• Enterprises that rely on hybrid or cloud-integrated solutions
• Teams prioritizing security compliance or Zero Trust architectures

Migration can wait if:

• Your current Server 2022 setup is stable and well-supported
• You have significant workloads with strict compatibility dependencies
• Your IT staff or budget are not ready for a transition year

Recommended Migration Timeline (with Use Case)

Remember: It’s often wise to wait for LTS (Long-Term Support) stability and broad driver compatibility before full-scale rollout.

Final Thoughts: Now Is the Time to Learn, Not Rush

Windows Server 2025 marks a significant step forward in Microsoft’s server roadmap.

Whether you plan to migrate early or stay on Server 2022 for several more years, understanding what’s coming will help shape smarter IT decisions.

This is not just about adopting new features—it’s about aligning your server infrastructure with modern security, cloud agility, and long-term support strategy.

So rather than rush to migrate, take this time to:

• Review your current infrastructure’s future readiness
• Identify workloads suited for hybrid or cloud migration
• Evaluate your compliance and security roadmap

With informed planning, you’ll be ready when the time is right.

💡 Looking for more tips? Check out our full list of Windows Help Guides.

タグ: Windows Server 2022, Windows Server 2025, Hybrid Cloud, Server OS Comparison, Server Migration, IT Infrastructure, Microsoft Server, Credential Guard