Windows Server 2022 vs 2025
Both releases are licensed identically: per physical core, with a 16-core minimum per server and 8-core minimum per processor, plus a CAL for every user or device. Windows Server 2025 adds hotpatching, SMB over QUIC in all editions, GPU partitioning and a longer support runway (extended support to October 2034 versus October 2031 for 2022). Buy 2025 for new deployments; 2022 only makes sense when application vendors have not certified 2025 yet.
Last reviewed by MSLicenseHub Licensing Desk on 2026-08-24.
Windows Server 2022 vs Windows Server 2025: full comparison
Which one should you buy?
Choose Windows Server 2025 if
You are deploying new hardware, want reboot-free security patching (hotpatch, subscription add-on), plan Hyper-V or GPU workloads, or simply want the longest support lifecycle for a perpetual purchase.
Stay on Windows Server 2022 if
Your ERP, backup or line-of-business vendor has not certified 2025, or you already own 2022 licences with active Software Assurance — SA gives you upgrade rights to 2025 at no extra licence cost.
Watch the CAL rule
CALs must match or exceed the newest server version you run. Windows Server 2025 CALs work against 2022 and 2019 servers; 2022 CALs are not valid for a 2025 server.
Frequently asked questions
Is Windows Server 2025 more expensive than 2022?
List pricing per core licence rose roughly 10% with the 2025 release, and CAL prices rose in line. The licensing model itself is unchanged, so a 2-processor / 16-core server needs the same 16 core licences in both versions.
Do I need new CALs for Windows Server 2025?
Yes. CALs are version-specific and must be equal to or newer than the server. Windows Server 2025 CALs also cover connections to 2022, 2019 and earlier servers, so you only ever buy the newest CAL you need.
Can I downgrade Windows Server 2025 to 2022?
Volume Licensing and OEM agreements include downgrade rights, so a 2025 licence can be deployed as 2022 or 2019 when an application requires it. Retail licences do not carry the same rights.
Does Software Assurance cover the upgrade to 2025?
Yes. Active Software Assurance on Windows Server 2022 core licences grants new-version rights, so you can move to 2025 without buying new base licences — CALs with SA upgrade the same way.