Which Windows version should you choose for your server?

Choosing a Windows version is mostly about two questions: how long will it get security updates, and does your software support it? This guide compares the Windows Server releases you are likely to see, explains how desktop-style editions differ, and helps you pick the right one for a Windows VPS or Admin RDP.

Before you start

• List the software you will install and check each vendor's supported operating systems. Trading platforms, accounting tools and database servers all publish this.

Server vs desktop editions

Windows Server

Windows Server is built to run services: IIS websites, SQL Server, file sharing, Active Directory and other roles and features. It is managed with Server Manager, Windows Admin Center and PowerShell. A Windows VPS runs Windows Server.

Desktop-style Windows

Windows 10 and 11 are built for one person working at a desktop. They include consumer apps and features that Server editions leave out. A Windows Admin RDP gives you a Windows desktop with administrator rights for day-to-day work.

Most desktop software runs on both. Some programs check the edition and refuse to install on Server, or the other way round, so check first.

Windows Server releases

Microsoft releases Windows Server through the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC), with a new version every few years. Each one gets about five years of mainstream support (security fixes and improvements) followed by about five years of extended support (security fixes only).

Windows Server 2019

Mature and widely supported by older business software. It is already in extended support, so it gets security fixes but no new features. Choose it only when an app specifically requires it.

Windows Server 2022

A common, well-tested choice with broad app support and stronger security defaults than 2019. It has several years of support left.

Windows Server 2025

The newest release. It has the longest support runway and the latest features. A few older apps may not list it as supported yet, so check before you commit.

Desktop Windows lifecycle

• Windows 11 is Microsoft's current desktop version and receives feature updates every year, each supported for a set period.
• Windows 10 reached the end of standard support in October 2025. Microsoft offers paid Extended Security Updates for some situations. For new setups, prefer Windows 11 or a supported Server version.

How to choose

• Hosting websites, IIS,.NET or SQL Server: Windows Server 2022 or 2025 on a Windows VPS.
• Trading platforms such as MetaTrader: any supported version works. Pick the newest one your broker's and tool vendors' requirements allow.
• Remote work desktop: a Windows Admin RDP, using a desktop edition where available.
• An app requires a specific version: follow the vendor, but plan an upgrade path before support ends.

Prefer the newest version your software supports. It gives you the most years before a migration.

Check it works

After you connect over Remote Desktop on IP:3389, press Win + R, type winver and press Enter. The window shows the edition, version and build number.

In PowerShell you can also run:

Get-ComputerInfo -Property WindowsProductName, OsVersion

Troubleshooting

• An installer says the OS is not supported: check the vendor's list. Some desktop apps block Server editions; ask the vendor for a server-compatible build or use an Admin RDP.
• A Server role is missing on a desktop edition: Server roles such as Active Directory Domain Services and Server Manager tools need Windows Server.
• Windows Update offers no more updates: the version may be out of support. Check Microsoft Lifecycle and plan a move.
• You need a different version: you can reinstall from your VPS provider's control panel if the version is offered. A reinstall erases the disk, so back up first.

Next steps

• Set up your new server: Windows VPS first steps.
• Keep it patched: Windows Update and server maintenance.