Can Windows Server 2012 R2 be directly upgraded to Windows Server 2019?

Casey Johnson 0 Reputation points
2023-08-30T17:04:51.27+00:00

I am looking to perform an upgrade for a physical server from Windows Server 2012 R2 to newer versions (potentially 2019 or 2022). I just want to verify that the in-place upgrade can be performed for 2019 directly.

Windows Server 2019
Windows Server 2019
A Microsoft server operating system that supports enterprise-level management updated to data storage.
3,458 questions
Windows Server 2012
Windows Server 2012
A Microsoft server operating system that supports enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and communications.
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  1. Dave Patrick 426.1K Reputation points MVP
    2023-08-31T13:07:38.4733333+00:00

    Yes, you can skip one. Also note an in-place upgrade is very risky and never recommended.

    --please don't forget to upvote and Accept as answer if the reply is helpful--

    2 people found this answer helpful.

  2. Karlie Weng 14,106 Reputation points Microsoft Vendor
    2023-08-31T03:55:09.9466667+00:00

    Hello @Casey Johnson

    Yes, you can perform an in-place upgrade from Windows Server 2012 R2 to Windows Server 2019.

    If you are considering upgrading to Windows Server 2022, it is recommended to first upgrade to 2016 and then to 2022.

    Before doing an in-place upgrade:

    1.    make sure hardware and applications are compatible with Windows Server 2019. Some older applications or hardware drivers might not work properly on the newer version.

    2.    always perform a full backup of your system before starting any upgrade process.

    3.    ensure that you have the appropriate licensing for Windows Server 2019.

     

    Below are the supported upgrade paths copied from Overview of Windows Server upgrades | Microsoft Learn:

    User's image

    Reference document:

    Perform an in-place upgrade of Windows Server | Microsoft Learn

     

    Hope this helps!

    Best regards

    Karlie Weng

    1 person found this answer helpful.