Windows Server Preview Build 26280 Released: A Glimpse into the Future with Dozens of Known Issues 

Microsoft has unveiled the Windows Server Preview Build 26280, offering both the Desktop Experience and Server Core installation options for the Datacenter and Standard editions. It also includes the Annual Channel for Container Host and Azure Edition.

This new build is announced as a preview for Windows Server 2025 Build 26280, and members of the Server Flighting program will automatically receive it today.

The latest update introduces the Windows Admin Center (WAC) app directly within the build, streamlining its installation on your server. The app is accessible for download through the Windows Server Store and is featured as an inbox app on the Windows Server Desktop.

This update, version 26280.5000, also debuts a new Feedback Hub app. To access the latest version, check for updates within the app’s settings tab.

Users should note some existing issues. Currently, there’s a problem preventing image generalization via Sysprep. This issue is recognized and a fix is planned for a subsequent update.

What are the highlights of Build 26280?

1. Windows Admin Center (WAC)
   • The Windows Admin Center app is now included directly in the build, simplifying server management.
   • Available as an inbox app on the Windows Server Desktop.
   • Downloadable through the Windows Server Store for added convenience.
2. Feedback Hub
   • A new Feedback Hub app allows users to provide insights and suggestions.
   • The latest version(Build 26280) can be accessed by manually checking for updates within the app’s settings tab.
3. Available Formats
   • ISO and VHDX files are provided for deployment.
   • Azure Edition is also available, catering to cloud-focused scenarios.
   • Language packs and optional feature packs have been released alongside the build, Build 26280.

What are the known issues of Build 26280?

1. Sysprep Generalization
   • Image generalization via Sysprep is currently broken.
   • A fix is scheduled for a future update.
2. Label Error
   • Some labels incorrectly refer to this build as part of Windows 11, but it pertains to Windows Server 2025.
   • The issue will be resolved in subsequent releases.
3. WinPE-PowerShell Component
   • Installing the WinPE-PowerShell optional component does not enable PowerShell functionality in WinPE.
   • Users requiring PowerShell in WinPE should avoid this build.
4. Event Log Service Crash
   • The Windows Event Log service crashes when using the “wevtutil al” command to archive event logs.
   • Users can restart the service with:
     bash

     Copy code

     Start-Service EventLog


     (Run in an administrative command prompt.)

Additionally, there may be a label error suggesting this build is for Windows 11, but it pertains to the Windows Server update. Corrections to this error are expected in upcoming releases.

Installing the WinPE-Powershell optional component does not effectively bring Powershell into WinPE, leading to failures in Powershell cmdlets. Users requiring Powershell functionality in WinPE should avoid this version.

Further issues are noted in Windows Server 26280, such as the crash of the Windows Event Log service when using the “wevtutil al” command to archive event logs. This complication necessitates the service’s restart through “Start-Service EventLog” via an administrative command prompt.

Microsoft has made available the ISO and VHDX files as well as the Azure Edition for the preview build 26280.5000 of Windows Server 2025. Language packs and optional feature packs have also been released.

Notably, the expiration date for Windows Server 26280 is set for September 15, 2025, slightly preceding the planned end of service for Windows 10 in October 2025.

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