How to get Windows Server SAC Updates

Question

Hi!
I've been trying to figure this out for a couple of days now... I don`t know if this has already been answered somewhere else but if so, I wasn't able to find anything.
I would like to switch from LTSC to SAC but I cannot figure out how to do that. On the Microsoft Website it says something about KMS Keys but I don´t quite understand what I'm supposed to do with those or if that's even what I need...
I understand, that this question might seem silly or simple to some people but I'm an amateur and I'm trying to learn and understand.

Answer 1

@André
Hi,
If you want to switch from LTSC to SAC, you should be installed as a clean installation.
Both the LTSC and the SAC releases will be supported with security updates and non-security updates, the updates you can get depend on the version you have installed.
If you are not the SAC version, you will not be able to get the corresponding update.

If you don't optain the license through the VS Subscription, you cannot switch to SAC, as long as you have the right licensing in place you can choose for each server.
It doesn’t matter which servicing channel you are using, servers need to be redeployed.

Hope above information can help you.

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Answer 2

Hi @André ,

Windows Server LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) & SAC (Semi-Annual Channel) are two different release models, so you cannot switch to one another, it will require a clean install.

Windows Server SAC receives new releases every 6 months, for more information regarding LTSC and SAC, see:

Windows Server servicing channels: LTSC and SAC
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/get-started-19/servicing-channels-19

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Best regards,
Leon