After a long anticipation, Microsoft has released the latest preview build of Windows Server, numbered 26296. This new build is packed with enhancements designed to streamline administration tasks for IT professionals, particularly through improvements to the Windows Admin Center (WAC) and the introduction of a new Feedback Hub app specifically for Windows Server.
Additionally, the latest build rolls out the Feedback Hub app, which is now readily accessible for Server Desktop users. This means that administrators can provide feedback, report issues, or suggest enhancements more conveniently. Updates to this app should occur automatically, but a quick check in the app's settings would confirm you're on the latest version.
In today’s fast-paced tech environment, efficiency turns decentralization into a competitive advantage. For organizations that rely heavily on Windows Server infrastructure, these enhancements are likely to improve productivity and enhance system security.
So, what do you think of these improvements? Do you feel they adequately address the needs of modern administrators, or is there a feature you feel is still lacking? Join the discussion and let us know your thoughts!
Source: Neowin Windows Server build 26296 is out with Windows Admin Center improvements and more
What’s New in Build 26296?
One of the most significant updates in build 26296 is the capability for users to download and install the Windows Admin Center directly from their desktop. Eyeing convenience, Microsoft has designed this in-OS application to simplify the installation process, guiding users through each step. For those looking to leverage WAC effectively, this feature is available if you're using either the Datacenter or Standard preview of Windows Server 2025.Additionally, the latest build rolls out the Feedback Hub app, which is now readily accessible for Server Desktop users. This means that administrators can provide feedback, report issues, or suggest enhancements more conveniently. Updates to this app should occur automatically, but a quick check in the app's settings would confirm you're on the latest version.
Features and Known Issues
Here's a quick look at the features and known issues in build 26296:- Windows Admin Center (WAC):
- Download and install directly through the Windows Server Desktop.
- Feedback Hub:
- Accessible for mapping out experiences and reporting bugs directly.
- Issues with Sysprep, where images cannot be generalized.
- A problematic experience reported with WinPE where PowerShell scripts may not install properly.
- General upgrade failures identified when transitioning from Windows Server 2019 or 2022.
The Broader Implications of These Changes
The introduction of more integrated features within Windows Server reflects a larger trend towards making system management easier and more efficient for administrators. By allowing downloads and installations directly via the desktop, Microsoft seeks to streamline workflows that historically required several steps.In today’s fast-paced tech environment, efficiency turns decentralization into a competitive advantage. For organizations that rely heavily on Windows Server infrastructure, these enhancements are likely to improve productivity and enhance system security.
In Conclusion
As IT professionals test out build 26296, the focus will be on how these improvements integrate into their daily operations. This particular build satisfies not only the interest of tech enthusiasts but also addresses genuine concerns related to managing complex server environments efficiently. So, if you are part of the Windows Server Insider program and haven’t downloaded this update yet, now might be the perfect time!So, what do you think of these improvements? Do you feel they adequately address the needs of modern administrators, or is there a feature you feel is still lacking? Join the discussion and let us know your thoughts!
Source: Neowin Windows Server build 26296 is out with Windows Admin Center improvements and more