Microsoft Windows Server Core 2012-r2 End of Life
Support dates and upgrade guidance — rebuilt from live data.
Microsoft Windows Server Core 2012-r2 reached end of life on 10 Oct 2023. It no longer receives security fixes.
Support timeline
Official dates from the Microsoft Windows Server Core release process.
| Milestone | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Initial release | 25 Nov 2013 | — |
| End of life | 10 Oct 2023 | 2.8 years ago |
| Active support ended | 9 Oct 2018 | security fixes only after this |
| Latest release | 6.3.9600 | final |
Where to go from 2012-r2
Recommended target: Microsoft Windows Server Core 2025 (supported until 10 Oct 2034).
The newest actively supported branch is Microsoft Windows Server Core 2025 (latest release 10.0.26100).
Frequently asked questions
Is Microsoft Windows Server Core 2012-r2 still safe to use?
Microsoft Windows Server Core 2012-r2 reached end of life on 10 Oct 2023, 1,034 days ago, and is no longer covered by standard support. Running it means no guaranteed security fixes.
Can I still download Microsoft Windows Server Core 2012-r2?
Yes — the final release (6.3.9600) generally remains available from vendor archives and OS package mirrors, but installing it means running software with known, unpatched vulnerabilities.
What should I upgrade Microsoft Windows Server Core 2012-r2 to?
Upgrade to Microsoft Windows Server Core 2025, the newest actively supported branch (supported until 10 Oct 2034).