Microsoft Windows lifecycle and update changes affecting Windows 10/Server 2016 and Windows 11

Microsoft is warning organizations that Windows Server 2016, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016, and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB are approaching end of support, after which they will no longer receive security patches, bug fixes, or technical support. Reported lifecycle dates include October 13, 2026 for the Windows 10 2016 LTSB variants and January 12, 2027 for Windows Server 2016; Microsoft’s guidance is to prioritize upgrades (e.g., to Windows Server 2025 and Windows 10/11 LTSC options where hardware permits) and, if migration timelines slip, to use the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program as a short-term bridge for up to three years with only “critical” and “important” security updates.

Separately, Microsoft released the Windows 11 KB5077241 optional (non-security) preview cumulative update with 29 quality changes, including BitLocker reliability improvements (addressing freezes after entering a recovery key) and new built-in capabilities such as a taskbar network speed test and native Sysmon functionality (disabled by default). The update also enables Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) by default on certain unmanaged Windows Pro devices and is positioned for admin testing ahead of the next Patch Tuesday release, but it does not include security fixes.