Windows Server vNext Build 26334 Enhances Server Security with Advanced Protection Features
Microsoft has introduced a new build of the forthcoming Windows Server Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) Preview, which is based on Windows Server vNext. This latest preview build is now accessible for download.
The newly released Windows Server vNext Preview Build 26334 includes options for Desktop Experience as well as Server Core installations for both the Datacenter and Standard editions. It also features an Annual Channel specifically for Container Host and an Azure Edition meant exclusively for virtual machine evaluations. Throughout this preview phase, Microsoft continues to refer to the operating system as Windows Server 2025, while encouraging Insiders to identify it as Windows Server vNext Preview.
Participants in the Windows Server Insider program who are part of the Server Flighting initiative will receive this build automatically. However, they should be aware that this will be the last Insider Preview for Windows Server until January 2025.
This build introduces Windows Defender Application Control for Business (WDAC), which serves as a security enhancement designed to diminish the attack surface of servers by enforcing a designated list of authorized software. Microsoft has established a default policy that facilitates this feature, which can be deployed to a server using PowerShell cmdlets.
The Windows Admin Center (WAC), an online management platform for Windows Server, can now be effortlessly installed on Windows Server preview builds, commencing with Windows Server vNext Preview Build 26252. Users can also download and install it directly through an in-OS app on a preview build.
Ultimately, Windows Server Insiders who are registered in the Server Flighting program are expected to receive the Windows Server vNext Preview Build 26334 automatically later today. For those not yet enrolled, registration options are available via the Windows Admin Center or through a PowerShell script.
As with any new release, there are some known issues to be aware of. Notably, this Windows Server Insider Preview build is set to expire on September 15, 2025. The Windows Server Insider Preview will be presented as a complimentary update to current Windows Server Preview users via Windows Update. Additionally, Microsoft will provide the build as an ISO file for those wishing to perform a clean installation of the OS.
For a comprehensive overview, you can check out the full changelog for Windows Server Build 26334 here.
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