Microsoft has officially launched the Windows Server 2025 Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) Preview Build 26461 for Windows Server Insiders. This build offers both Desktop Experience and Server Core installation options for the Datacenter and Standard editions. Additionally, it includes the Annual Channel for Container Host and Azure Edition, which is specifically designed for virtual machine evaluation. A key feature of this release is the introduction of Rack Level Nested Mirror (RLNM) for the Storage Spaces Direct (S2D) Campus Cluster. This enhancement enables organizations to comply with the NIS2 data room requirements, ensuring rapid and reliable storage solutions.
For those utilizing S2D Campus Clusters, Microsoft recommends the use of all-flash storage configurations, including SSD or NVMe drives, and the implementation of RDMA NICs (iWARP, RoCE, or InfiniBand) to optimize performance. To utilize RLNM effectively, users must establish rack fault domains within their cluster, which requires creating a new cluster without storage initially and defining the fault domains according to their physical setup.
2. Storage Enhancements: The RLNM feature allows for robust storage solutions that comply with stringent data requirements.
3. Performance Recommendations: Users are encouraged to leverage all-flash storage and RDMA NICs for enhanced performance in S2D setups.
4. Fault Domain Setup: Detailed guidance is provided for setting up fault domains and integrating storage solutions effectively.
For those utilizing S2D Campus Clusters, Microsoft recommends the use of all-flash storage configurations, including SSD or NVMe drives, and the implementation of RDMA NICs (iWARP, RoCE, or InfiniBand) to optimize performance. To utilize RLNM effectively, users must establish rack fault domains within their cluster, which requires creating a new cluster without storage initially and defining the fault domains according to their physical setup.
Key Features and Enhancements
1. Installation Options: The preview supports installations for both Desktop Experience and Server Core across Datacenter and Standard editions.2. Storage Enhancements: The RLNM feature allows for robust storage solutions that comply with stringent data requirements.
3. Performance Recommendations: Users are encouraged to leverage all-flash storage and RDMA NICs for enhanced performance in S2D setups.
4. Fault Domain Setup: Detailed guidance is provided for setting up fault domains and integrating storage solutions effectively.
Next Steps for Insiders
Windows Server Insiders who have signed up for the Server Flighting program will receive this new build automatically. It is important for users to report any issues encountered while testing this preview, referring to it as Windows Server vNext.Conclusion
The release of Windows Server 2025 LTSC Preview Build 26461 represents a significant step forward in Microsoft's commitment to providing robust server solutions. The new features, particularly the RLNM for S2D Campus Clusters, demonstrate Microsoft's focus on meeting modern data management and storage requirements. As organizations continue to adapt to evolving technology landscapes, this preview serves as an important tool for testing and preparing for future deploymentsWindows Server 2025 LTSC Preview Build 26461 released
Microsoft has released the Windows Server 2025 LTSC Preview Build 26461 for testing purposes to Windows Server Insiders. This release includes options for Desktop Experience and Server Core installations for both Datacenter and Standard editions, as well as the Annual Channel for Container Host and Azure Edition, which is intended for virtual machine evaluation only. The latest build includes the Rack Level Nested Mirror (RLNM) for the S2D Campus Cluster, enabling customers to meet NIS2 data room requirements for their factories by providing rapid and reliable storage through Storage Spaces Direct (S2D).
Windows Server 2025 LTSC Preview Build 26461 released @ NT Compatible
