Microsoft Windows Server 2012-r2 End of Life
Support dates and upgrade guidance — rebuilt from live data.
Microsoft Windows Server 2012-r2 reached end of life on 10 Oct 2023. Standard support is over — security updates now require extended support, which runs to 13 Oct 2026.
Support timeline
Official dates from the Microsoft Windows Server 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 |
| Extended support ends | 13 Oct 2026 | 65 days left |
| Latest release | 6.3.9600 | final |
Where to go from 2012-r2
Recommended target: Microsoft Windows Server 2025 (supported until 14 Nov 2034).
The newest actively supported branch is Microsoft Windows Server 2025 (latest release 10.0.26100).
Frequently asked questions
Is Microsoft Windows Server 2012-r2 still safe to use?
Microsoft Windows Server 2012-r2 left standard support on 10 Oct 2023. It still receives security updates under extended support until 13 Oct 2026 — 65 days from now — but only if you are enrolled. Without it, no fixes reach you.
Can I still download Microsoft Windows Server 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 2012-r2 to?
Upgrade to Microsoft Windows Server 2025, the newest actively supported branch (supported until 14 Nov 2034).