Windows Server 2025: Bugs, Workarounds, and What You Need to Know
Microsoft has officially released Windows Server 2025, its latest Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) release. However, users have already reported several critical bugs impacting systems with more than 256 logical processors. These issues primarily manifest as installation and Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors, prompting Microsoft to issue a dedicated release health entry.
Symptoms of the Bugs
The bugs can cause a variety of frustrating problems, including:
- Windows Server 2025 installation and upgrade processes failing or getting stuck
- Excessive server start-up and restart times (potentially exceeding three hours)
- Blue screen errors when launching, restarting, or using applications
Microsoft emphasizes that these issues are not consistently triggered on affected devices, adding another layer of complexity.
Identifying Affected Systems
To determine if your Windows Server 2025 system is impacted, follow these steps:
- Open the Windows Task Manager using the CTRL+SHIFT+ESC keyboard shortcut.
- Check the “Performance” tab for the number of logical processors.
If the number of logical processors is over 256, your system may be vulnerable to these bugs.
Workarounds and Fixes
While Microsoft is actively working on a permanent fix to be included in an upcoming Windows monthly update, there are temporary workarounds available:
- Limit Logical Processors: Adjust the server’s UEFI settings to limit the number of logical processors to 256 or fewer. This may involve navigating firmware menus and adjusting core-per-socket settings. Be sure to calculate the total number of logical processors accurately.
Other Known Issues
Microsoft has also warned users about another issue affecting the installation process:
Some users may encounter English text during installation even if they’ve selected a different language, particularly when using media such as CD or USB with Windows Server 2025 build 25100.1742 and later. This occurs when installing with the Multilanguage User Interface (MUI) enabled.
Try Windows Server 2025 Today
Despite these known issues, Windows Server 2025 offers several exciting new features, including next-generation Active Directory, hotpatching, and SMB over QUIC alternative ports. You can try it for yourself with a free 180-day trial available through the Microsoft Evaluation Center.