Windows Server 2016 Version 1709 Available for Download Right Now

Today Microsoft made available Windows Server 2016 version 1709 for download to customers with Software Assurance and for Microsoft Azure customers.

First announced five months ago, Windows Server 2016 version 1709 releases as a Semi-Annual Channel with 18 months support (more details below).

Long and Semi-Annual Channel

As Announced a few months ago, Windows Server will be available in two release modules.

  • Long-Term Servicing channel – This Is the current and most familiar module where a new operating system version is released every 2-3 years with 5 years support cycle.
  • Semi-Annual Channel – This new module will offer two new releases every year with new features and roles, support will be available for 18 months.

The Semi-Annual Channel will only be available for Volume Licensing Customers with Software Assurance.

If you don’t have Software Assurance you can use Microsoft Azure where it’s available.

Download

You can only download 1709 If you have access to the VLSC portal.

You can see below that 1709 comes with:

  • The new Windows Nano Server 2016 Container Only Image which is 70% smaller than the current image
  • Windows Subsystem for Linux
  • Linux Shielded VMs

The release date is 17/10/2017.

The big surprise for me is that It is only available as Server Core with a total size of 2.8 GB (I’m sure the GUI version will be available soon.

In the next few days, I’ll release more articles showing the installation and all the new features.

Update: I’ve posted the Installation video.


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Comments

One response to “Windows Server 2016 Version 1709 Available for Download Right Now”

  1. Jordan Avatar
    Jordan

    There will not be a GUI version for v1709. At least not soon. Source: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/get-started/get-started-with-1709