Introduction
Microsoft’s latest release of Windows Server 2025 marks a significant leap in server technology. This version comes packed with new features and enhancements, particularly aimed at boosting performance in virtual environments such as Hyper-V. Notably, it includes an expansion of hotpatching capabilities to non-Azure servers, an innovative move aimed at reducing downtime and streamlining server maintenance. Our focus will be on exploring the installation experience on Hyper-V, the straightforward onboarding process for Azure Arc, and patching the server OS using the Azure Update Manager.
Installing Windows Server 2025 on Hyper-V
When installing Windows Server 2025 on Hyper-V, you’ll notice some updates to the user interface.
Onboarding to Azure Arc Using the Inbox Setup Wizard
Onboarding to Azure Arc, a feature first included in Windows Server 2022 and now part of Windows Server 2025, offers a seamless integration with Azure services. Azure Arc extends Azure management capabilities to Windows Server, allowing for centralized management and governance across on-premises, edge, and multi-cloud environments.
The onboarding process to Azure Arc in Windows Server 2025 is streamlined with an inbox setup wizard. This wizard simplifies the process of connecting your Windows Server 2025 to Azure, enhancing its capabilities with Azure’s cloud-based tools and services. The step-by-step guide, ideally accompanied by screenshots, would involve:
- Accessing the Azure Arc Setup Wizard in the Windows Server interface.
- Following the wizard’s prompts to connect your server to Azure.
- Completing the Azure Arc agent installation and configuration.
- Verifying the connection in the Azure portal to ensure successful integration.
This integration not only brings advanced management tools to your server environment but also enables more robust security, compliance, and efficient resource utilization.
Azure Arc Onboarding Process
After the successful onboarding you should see your first Windows Server 2025 from the Azure Portal.
One-Day Training on Azure Update Manager: Mastering Modern Update Management
Azure Update Manager and Hotpatching
Azure Update Manager in Windows Server 2025, set to replace Azure Update Management, marks a new era in server patch management. This advanced service offers automated, centralized updates, crucial for maintaining security and performance across multiple servers.
Hotpatching will be available in Windows Server 2025, as well as for servers connected to Azure Arc. This feature allows the application of critical security updates and bug fixes without the need for a full system reboot, thereby minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous operation. Utilizing hotpatching with Windows Server 2025 promises to be a significant improvement.
However, my tests indicate hotpatching is not enabled by default, suggesting specific requirements or configurations are needed. For hybrid cloud environments, Azure Arc is essential for utilizing Azure Update Manager.
