Exploring the New Installation Experiences in Windows Server 2025 Preview Build 26304
Microsoft has unveiled the newest Windows Server 2025 Preview Build 26304. This build is part of the upcoming Windows Server Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) Preview, which offers both the Desktop Experience and Server Core installation options for the Datacenter and Standard editions of Windows Server 2025, in addition to the Windows Server 2025 Annual Channel preview tailored for Container Host and Azure Edition.
Windows Server 2025 Preview Build 26304 – The freshly released build 26304 introduces updated branding for Windows Server 2025. Insiders who have registered for Server Flighting should expect to receive this build automatically.
What are the key highlights of Build 26304?
1. Updated Branding and Distribution
- Windows Server 2025 Branding: Reflects Microsoft’s vision for the upcoming LTSC release.
- Automatic Updates: Insiders registered for Server Flighting will receive this build automatically.
2. Security Enhancements
- Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC):
- Introduces a default policy for secure application execution.
- Minimizes attack vectors by allowing only approved software to run.
- Configurable via PowerShell cmdlets.
- Security Baseline Preview:
- Over 350 preconfigured security settings tailored for compliance with Microsoft and industry standards.
- Categorized by server roles:
- Domain Controller (DC)
- Member Server
- Workgroup Member
- Designed for testing purposes only, as some configurations may not be reversible.
3. Feedback Hub for Desktop Users
- Feedback Hub Application:
- Automatically updates to the latest version.
- Manual updates available through the app’s settings.
- Provides users with a direct channel to share feedback and suggestions.
The Windows Defender Application Control for Business (WDAC) introduces a robust security feature that enhances safety by implementing a specific list of approved software to execute, thus minimizing potential attack vectors. For Windows Server 2025, Microsoft has introduced a ‘default policy’ that can be easily applied through PowerShell cmdlets.
Furthermore, the Windows Server 2025 Security Baseline Preview is now available, offering over 350 preconfigured security settings to ensure detailed enforcement of security protocols that adhere to best practices advised by Microsoft and recognized industry standards. Windows Server 2025 Preview Build 26304, this initiative builds upon the security enhancements initiated in the previous version when virtual machines were made safer than ever.
The security baseline content is categorized into three sections according to server roles: Domain Controller (DC), Member Server, and Workgroup Member. It’s essential to preview the security baseline solely on test systems since not all configurations are reversible.
Additionally, the newly released Feedback Hub application is available for Windows Server Desktop users. Windows Server 2025 Preview Build 26304, this app is designed to update automatically to the latest version; however, if it fails to do so, users can manually check for updates within the app’s settings tab.
How to Download?
The Windows Server 2025 Preview Build 26304 is now available for download from the Windows Server Insider Preview page. Insiders can access the build to explore the latest advancements in server functionality, security, and management.
As is customary, this build comes with several known issues, and you can find the complete list on the Windows Server Insider Preview blog post.
If you haven’t already, you can now download the latest build from the Windows Server Insider Preview page.
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