Windows Server Semi-annual Channel

Yes as detailed here
 
“There will be two primary release channels available to Windows Server customers, the Long-term Servicing Channel, and the new Semi-annual Channel.”
 
When installing SQL Server the key thing to remember is:
 
“Windows Server products in the Semi-annual Channel will have new releases available twice a year, in spring and fall. Each release in this channel will be supported for 18 months from the initial release.”
 
18 months = 1.5 years so not very long and given that SQL Server releases are typically every 2 years, I’m not sure how viable this the new Semi-annual Channel will be for hosting SQL Server. Time will tell.
 
sac-release-timing
(source Microsoft)
 
What is really interesting is that, to me, it appears that Microsoft may have gone from a market leader to a follower, I could be wrong:

  • Cloud
  • Linux
  • Open Source
  • Docker
  • Git
  • Channels
  • Core licences

 
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