Can you please confirm whether Azure based VMs running Windows Server 2012 will automatically receive extended security updates beyond October 10 2023?

Faris Choudhry 20 Reputation points
2023-07-13T11:44:09.5233333+00:00

Hi,

Please can you confirm whether Azure based VMs running Windows Server 2012 will automatically receive extended security updates beyond October 10 2023?

The FAQ section of https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/extended-security-updates states that extended support of Windows Server 2012 will reach end of support - does this deadline apply to Azure based VMs?

Lastly, what is the difference between Extended Support and Extended Security Updates?

Thanks in advance!

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Azure Virtual Machines
Azure Virtual Machines
An Azure service that is used to provision Windows and Linux virtual machines.
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Windows Server Security
Windows Server Security
Windows Server: A family of Microsoft server operating systems that support enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and communications.Security: The precautions taken to guard against crime, attack, sabotage, espionage, or another threat.
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  1. deherman-MSFT 37,856 Reputation points Microsoft Employee
    2023-07-13T16:15:34.62+00:00

    @Faris Choudhry

    From the FAQ:

    Extended Security Updates in Azure: Customers who migrate workloads to Azure Virtual Machines (IaaS) will have access to Extended Security Updates for SQL Server 2008/2008 R2 and 2012 and Windows Server for the 2008/2008 R2 and 2012/2012 R2 versions for three years after the End of Support dates for no additional charges above the cost of running the virtual machine. For many customers, this is an easy first step before upgrading or modernizing with newer versions or services in Azure. Those that decide to move to Azure SQL Managed Instance (PaaS) will also have access to continuous security updates, as this is a fully managed solution. Customers do not need Software Assurance to receive Extended Security Updates in Azure.

    I also found this a little confusing, but reading this blog post confirmed that the three additional years occur after October 10, 2023 so extending to 2026.

    Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 Extended Support (ESU) will end on October 10, 2023. Extended Support for SQL Server 2012 ends July 12, 2022. Customers that cannot meet this deadline can protect their apps and data running on these releases for three additional years when they migrate to Windows Server and SQL Server on Azure and take advantage of free ESUs on Azure. Customers running Windows Server and SQL Server on these releases and on-premises will have the option to purchase ESUs.

    Let me know if you have anymore questions.


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