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A new Feedback Hub is also part of this update.
originally published on
October 14, 2024
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Microsoft has introduced the newest Windows Server 2025 Preview Build 26304. This release is part of the forthcoming Windows Server Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) Preview, offering both the Desktop Experience and Server Core installation options for the Windows Server 2025 Datacenter and Standard editions, as well as the Windows Server 2025 Annual Channel preview tailored for Container Host and Azure Edition.
The updated build 26304 features new branding for Windows Server 2025. Windows Server Insiders who are registered for Server Flighting will receive this build automatically.
Windows Defender Application Control for Business (WDAC) introduces a novel security feature designed to minimize the attack surface by mandating a specific list of permissible software. For Windows Server 2025, Microsoft has introduced a ‘default policy’ that can be implemented through PowerShell cmdlets.
Additionally, the Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline Preview has emerged, offering over 350 preconfigured Windows security settings aimed at enforcing detailed security configurations that adhere to best practices as advocated by Microsoft and industry norms. This initiative further enhances the security advancements initiated in the previous version when it established VMs as the most secure they’ve ever been.
The security baseline framework is categorized into three distinct roles: Domain Controller (DC), Member Server, and Workgroup Member. It is crucial to mention that the security baseline should only be tested on non-production systems, as not all settings can be reverted.
Moreover, the newly launched Feedback Hub app is now accessible for Windows Server Desktop users. This app is designed to update automatically with the latest version, but if it fails to do so, users can manually check for updates within the app’s settings.
As always, this release comes with a variety of known issues, and you can find the complete list in the Windows Server Insider Preview blog post.
If you haven’t done so already, you can grab the latest build from the Windows Server Insider Preview page.
For more information, check out these topics: Windows 11, Windows Update.
Flavius Floare
Tech Journalist
Flavius is a writer and a media content producer with a particular interest in technology, gaming, media, film, and storytelling. He’s always curious and ready to take on everything new in the tech world, covering Microsoft’s products on a daily basis. His passion for gaming and hardware enriches his journalistic approach, making him an excellent researcher and news writer who’s always eager to provide you with the latest updates!
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Flavius Floare
Tech Journalist
Flavius is a writer and a media content producer with a keen interest in technology, gaming, media, film, and storytelling.