For hybrid environments, this update continues to refine the Azure Arc experience, making it easier to manage Windows Servers running on-premises or in other cloud providers directly from the Azure Portal.
Yes. dism /online /get-packages to list installed updates, then use dism /online /add-package with the MSU. Or simply run usoclient startscan if Windows Update is configured.
No update is perfect. The December 2024 release had two documented known issues:
While the core OS remains unchanged, every monthly rollup brings critical refinements. The December 2024 Update for Windows Server 2022 LTSC 21H2 x64 English focuses on three pillars:
SMB1 had been deprecated since 2014, but some stub components remained. The December update removed the SMB1-Client star function entirely. Any attempt to reinstall it is blocked by Defender. windows server 2022 ltsc 21h2 x64 english decem updated
Let us break down this dense but important string of text:
Crucial Note for 2025: While the keyword mentions "DecEM Updated," as of today (May 2, 2026), the December 2024 update is the historical baseline that includes all security fixes for Q4 2024. The latest updates supersede it, but many enterprises freeze on a "known good" December build due to year-end stability audits.
This is a cumulative update – you do not need to install previous months’ patches. The next Preview Update is expected in January 2026, with another security-only release on Patch Tuesday (January 13, 2026).
For enterprise users, Microsoft recommends applying this update to all Server 2022 instances, especially domain controllers and file servers. For hybrid environments, this update continues to refine
Windows Server 2022 LTSC (Version 21H2) is a long-term servicing channel release that focuses on security and hybrid cloud performance. A "December updated" version typically refers to an ISO image that includes cumulative security and quality updates released through December. System Requirements
To ensure a successful installation, your hardware must meet these minimum specifications:
Processor: 1.4 GHz 64-bit processor with support for NX, DEP, and CMPXCHG16b. RAM: Server Core: 512 MB minimum. Desktop Experience: 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended). Storage: At least 32 GB of free disk space.
Firmware: UEFI 2.3.1c-based with Secure Boot support and TPM 2.0. Installation Steps Windows Server 2022 update history - Microsoft Support While the core OS remains unchanged, every monthly
Technical Overview: Windows Server 2022 LTSC (v21H2) Updated December 2025
Windows Server 2022 remains a cornerstone of Microsoft’s Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC), designed for stability and 10 years of support. As of the December 9, 2025 update (KB5071547, OS Build 20348.4529), the platform continues to refine its core pillars of security, hybrid cloud integration, and application scalability. Core Update Details (December 2025) Latest Build: OS Build 20348.4529. Primary KB Article: KB5071547.
Security Focus: The December Patch Tuesday cycle addressed 56 vulnerabilities across various Windows components, including several high-severity issues.
Servicing Stack Update (SSU): This release includes KB5068786 (v20348.4400), ensuring a robust component for future update installations. Key Features of the 21H2 LTSC Release
Windows Server 2022 (v21H2) is built on the "Iron" codebase and provides several generational leaps over its predecessors: Windows Server 2022 | Microsoft Evaluation Center