Microsoft Addresses Install Issues and BSOD Bugs in Windows Server 2025
Microsoft has acknowledged several bugs affecting the installation processes and the notorious Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on Windows Server 2025 systems that utilize more than 256 logical processors. These issues, which include failures and prolonged server restarts, could significantly affect businesses relying on the latest server architecture.
Users experiencing these issues might find their Windows Server 2025 installations or upgrades hanging, while server restarts in some circumstances are stretching to three hours or longer. Added to the inconvenience are reports of blue screens appearing when launching or restarting applications on the affected servers—a serious concern for enterprises relying on uptime.
Severity and Occurrence of Issues
According to Microsoft’s latest entry on Windows release health, the manifestation of these problems is not consistent across all devices. Thus, it can create confusion for system administrators trying to pinpoint the risk factors involved.
To assess whether your system might be affected by these bugs, Microsoft advises checking the number of logical processors on your server. This can be done by opening the Task Manager using the CTRL+SHIFT+ESC keyboard shortcut and navigating to the Performance tab. If the count exceeds 256 logical processors, your system is at risk.
Temporary Workaround Available
In light of these complications, Microsoft is actively developing a fix set to be released in an upcoming Windows monthly update. Until then, administrators can manage the number of logical processors on affected devices. The suggested workaround entails limiting the active logical processors to 256 or fewer, which can be done through the UEFI Setup:
- Restart your server and enter the UEFI Setup.
- Navigate through the firmware menus, which may vary between manufacturers.
- Locate the option to adjust the number of cores per socket.
- Set this value to ensure that the total number of logical processors does not exceed 256. Remember that this total is calculated by multiplying the number of sockets by the number of cores per socket and then again by the number of logical processors per core.
- Restart the server.
Additional User Experience Notes
Apart from the installation and BSOD issues, users have been warned that certain media formats, such as CDs or USBs used for installation, may display some text in English during installation—regardless of the chosen language. This is limited to systems utilizing the Multilanguage User Interface (MUI) on Windows Server media version 25100.1742 and later.
The Launch of Windows Server 2025
These complications come on the heels of Microsoft’s recent announcement declaring Windows Server 2025 as generally available, with a free 180-day trial accessible through the Microsoft Evaluation Center. This release represents the latest Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) update from Microsoft, boasting promising features like next-generation Active Directory, hotpatching capabilities, and support for SMB over QUIC alternative ports.
The foundational changes include a shift that allows transition from the default SMB over QUIC UDP/443 port to alternate ports, providing system administrators with greater flexibility and control over their network environments.
Industry Implications
For technology enthusiasts and professionals, the impact of these installation issues and BSOD risks highlights a critical consideration in deploying Windows Server 2025. As companies migrate to this version, the state of the underlying hardware and system configurations will play an essential role in ensuring a smooth transition.
As the tech landscape continues to evolve, it’s imperative for IT departments to stay vigilant regarding updates from Microsoft, especially in an era where downtime can cost businesses significantly. A common refrain from experts emphasizes the importance of proactive measures and planning when managing server environments.
Share Your Thoughts
Have you encountered any issues with Windows Server 2025 or found the temporary fixes effective? What strategies are you employing as your organization transitions to this new platform? We encourage you to share your insights in the comments below and stay connected for more updates on this topic.
For further reading on related issues and updates, check out resources on TechCrunch, The Verge, or Wired.
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