Hey Checkyourlogs Fans,

Microsoft’s Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Azure Edition introduces Azure-exclusive features such as Hot patching, which enables the application of security updates without restarting, and Azure Auto manage for streamlined management. This guide outlines the steps to upgrade your Azure VM running Windows Server 2022 Datacenter (ISO Build) to the Azure Edition.

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More information on the upgrade process can be found here from Microsoft. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/azure-local/manage/upgrade-vm-windows-server-azure-edition

Prerequisites

Before starting the upgrade, ensure the following requirements are met:

  1. Azure Benefits and Licensing:
    • Confirm that Azure Benefits are enabled, and your subscription is licensed to use Windows Server Azure Edition.
  2. VM Compatibility:
    • Ensure the VM is Generation 2 with Secure Boot enabled.
    • Use the Azure portal to verify the VM generation and boot settings.
  3. Cumulative Updates:
    • Apply the latest cumulative updates to the VM to ensure the OS is fully patched.
  4. Backup the VM:
    • Create a backup using Azure Backup or take a Hyper-V production snapshot.
    • Once the upgrade is validated, you can delete the checkpoint to save storage.

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Upgrade Process Using ISO File

Step 1: Download the Windows Server Azure Edition Installer ISO

  1. Log in to the VM using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) with an account with local Administrator privileges.
  2. Open a web browser within the VM and download the appropriate Windows Server Azure Edition ISO file:
  3. https://aka.ms/AAi4r31
  4. Save the ISO file to a local directory on the VM.

Step 2: Attach the ISO File

  1. In the VM, open File Explorer and navigate to the downloaded ISO file.
  2. Right-click the ISO file and select Mount. This creates a virtual drive, exposing the installation files.

Step 3: Perform an In-Place Upgrade

  1. Open the mounted ISO drive in File Explorer.
  2. Double-click the setup.exe file to start the upgrade process.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions:
    • Choose to keep personal files and apps to retain your current configurations and installed software.
    • Confirm the upgrade path aligns with Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Azure Edition.
  4. Allow the installer to complete the in-place upgrade. The VM will reboot several times during the process.

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Post-Upgrade Validation

  1. Verify the OS Edition:
    • Once the upgrade is complete, verify that the VM is running Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Azure Edition. Run the following PowerShell command:
  2. Clean Up:
    • Detach the mounted ISO by right-clicking the virtual drive in File Explorer and selecting Eject.
  3. Monitor Performance:
    • Use Azure Monitor and Log Analytics to track system performance and ensure everything operates as expected.

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Conclusion

Upgrading to Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Azure Edition unlocks exclusive Azure features that improve system availability, security, and management. Following this guide, you can seamlessly transition your VM to the Azure Edition and take full advantage of these capabilities.

If you’ve successfully upgraded your VM or encountered any challenges, please share your experiences in the comments!

Thanks,

Dave