On November 1st, Microsoft officially launched Windows Server 2025, bringing cutting-edge updates and features for administrators and organizations. This latest release introduces advancements across storage, security, and virtualization, as well as critical Active Directory (AD) improvements.
New Features and Highlights
1. Hotpatching with Azure Arc Integration Hotpatching in Windows Server 2025 allows administrators to update systems without downtime. Azure Arc enables this functionality, providing a more efficient patching process for cloud-connected environments.
2. NVMe Storage Performance Windows Server 2025 delivers up to 60% improved NVMe performance over Windows Server 2022, enhancing NVMe storage throughput for faster data access.
3. Block Cloning Support with ReFS Designed for modern development environments, Block Cloning on ReFS significantly enhances file-copying speeds, making Dev Drive operations smoother and faster.
4. Enhanced Active Directory Capabilities The new Active Directory features include AD object repair and 32k database page size options, providing better management and security of sensitive attributes. Microsoft has also enhanced Credential Guard to prevent credential theft, with this feature now enabled by default.
5. SMB Over QUIC and Security Enhancements Supporting SMB over QUIC, Windows Server 2025 enables secure access to file shares over the internet. The protocol includes hardened firewall defaults and brute-force protection, helping defend against MITM, relay, and spoofing attacks.
Additional Noteworthy Features
- DTrace Integration: Windows Server 2025 includes DTrace, a tool for real-time performance monitoring and troubleshooting.
- Delegate Managed Service Accounts (dMSA): AD now manages dMSA passwords, eliminating the need for manual updates, thereby enhancing security.
- Accelerated Networking (AccelNet): Using SR-IOV, AccelNet reduces latency and improves VM performance on virtualized servers.
- Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS): Built into Windows Server 2025, LAPS securely generates and stores unique local admin passwords, further protecting systems.
Known Issues and Troubleshooting
Microsoft is investigating installation errors and BSOD issues on systems with over 256 processors. iSCSI boot errors and minor language inconsistencies during installation have also been reported. Microsoft encourages users facing these issues to consult the support documentation for updates and potential fixes.
Get Started with Windows Server 2025
Administrators can access a 180-day trial of Windows Server 2025 through the Microsoft Evaluation Center, providing an opportunity to test its new features before full implementation.
