Microsoft Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition
Microsoft Windows Server 2022’s release was first announced in late 2021. This version of Windows Server implemented upgrades to its operating system, including better performance, cloud upgrades, and increased security features.
In addition to its Essential, Standard, and Data Center editions, Microsoft introduced Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition, which includes unique and enterprise-grade operating system improvements. Before investing in this version, read this guide to learn if its features match your business needs.
What is Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition?
Microsoft built Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition to run as a virtual machine (VM) on an Azure Stack HCI cluster or as an Azure IaaS virtual machine within Azure. Unlike the other versions of Windows Server 2022, you cannot install Azure Edition on bare hardware.
Furthermore, it can’t run on third-party hypervisors, within third-party clouds, or under client or Windows Server Hyper-V. It’s the most distinct version because of the three new features: hot patching, SMB over QUIC, and access to Azure Extended Network.
The Essential Upgrades of Azure Edition
In the latest Azure Edition, Microsoft has introduced several essential upgrades that enhance security, performance, and connectivity. Key features like hotpatching for reduced downtime, SMB over QUIC for secure file sharing, and Extended Network Access for streamlined network management are reshaping the cloud landscape. Let’s explore how these innovations can benefit your Azure environment.
Hotpatching
One of the most notable benefits of Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition is hotpatching—a feature that establishes a baseline with the Windows Update Latest Cumulative Update, reducing the need to schedule updates. This is particularly useful for businesses moving toward a zero-trust security model. Hotpatching allows you to install security updates without rebooting your server, maintaining connectivity.
Its smaller update packages will install faster, creating easier patch orchestration within Azure Automanage. Hotpatching also offers better protection because these packages are scoped to Windows security updates. According to Microsoft, you'll only need to "bounce a server to install cumulative updates that are released every quarter." Note that this is not the case for unplanned updates designed to resolve critical vulnerabilities.
SMB Over QUIC
SMB over QUIC is a Windows Server 2022 Azure Edition feature that addresses challenges related to accessing remote file servers without a VPN on mobile devices and untrusted networks. This access happens through the use of an SMB VPN. As an alternative to TCP, SMB over QUIC opens the door for reliable and secure connectivity to edge file servers over untrusted networks.
SMB over QUIC management ensures that it stays enabled for better service continuity. Through the use of encrypted QUIC certificates, SMB over QUIC management makes sure that the certificates don't expire without warning.
Extended Network Access
The most notable feature of Microsoft Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition is the Azure Extended Network, which addresses the inability of some virtual machines to change their IP addresses. Azure Extended Network now allows Windows Server workload migration while maintaining original IP addresses.
For those looking to upgrade, Windows Server 2025 is currently in preview and includes a host of new features for security, performance, and flexibility. For information on Windows Server 2025 when it releases, subscribe to our blog.
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FAQs
Get answers to frequently asked Windows Server 2022 Data Center Azure Edition questions.
How does Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition differ from the Standard edition?
Microsoft designed this Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition for use in Azure environments and offers Azure-specific features not available on Standard editions. While both editions share server core features, the Azure Edition includes functionality such as hotpatching, SMB over QUIC, and Azure Extended Network.
It's ideal for cloud workloads and supports seamless integration with Azure services while the standard edition is more suitable for on-premises deployments.
Can I run Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition on my on-premises Hyper-V setup?
No, Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition can only run as a virtual machine on an Azure Stack HCI cluster or as an Azure IaaS virtual machine. You cannot install it on bare hardware or run it on third-party hypervisors, including on-premises Hyper-V setups.
What networking improvements does Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition offer?
Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition introduces several networking improvements to enhance connectivity and security, such as SMB over QUIC, which provides a secure and reliable way to access file servers remotely. It also includes the Azure Extended Network allowing for workload migration while maintaining original IP addresses, simplifying network configuration in hybrid cloud scenarios.
Users will also benefit from the latest Transport Layer Security protocol (TLS 1.3) being enabled by default, providing improved security and performance for encrypted communications.
Seamlessly Upgrade with Trusted Tech Team
Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Azure Edition brings key upgrades, such as hot patching, SMB over QUIC, and Extended Network Access, that enhance performance, security, and connectivity.
Whether you're looking to optimize your existing infrastructure or take full advantage of these new features, Trusted Tech Team is here to help. Our team of experts ensures a seamless upgrade process, minimizing disruptions and ensuring your Azure environment is fully optimized for success.
