KB5073698: Overview with user sentiment and feedback

Overview

The January 13, 2026 KB5073698 (Monthly Rollup) is a security update for Windows Server 2012. This update includes a variety of fixes and quality improvements, including changes to Windows Deployment Services (WDS) and the removal of certain modem drivers. The update is part of the Extended Security Updates (ESUs) available for Windows Server 2012, which will continue to receive security updates until October 2026.

General Purpose

The main purpose of this KB5073698 update is to provide security and quality improvements for Windows Server 2012. Key changes include:- Changes to Windows Deployment Services (WDS) to stop supporting hands-free deployment functionality by default. Administrators should review the guidance and follow instructions provided in the Windows Deployment Services (WDS) Hands-Free Deployment Hardening Guidance.- Removal of certain modem drivers (agrsm64.sys, agrsm.sys, smserl64.sys, smserial.sys) which means modem hardware dependent on these drivers will no longer work in Windows.- Addresses various security vulnerabilities as detailed in the Deployments | Security Update Guide and the January 2026 Security Updates.

General Sentiment

The general sentiment around this KB5073698 update is mixed. On the positive side, it provides important security fixes and quality improvements for Windows Server 2012 users. However, the changes to WDS and the removal of certain modem drivers may cause disruption for some organizations, especially those still relying on Windows Server 2012. There is also some concern around the upcoming end of support for Windows Server 2012 in October 2026, which may prompt organizations to start planning their migration to a newer version of Windows Server. Overall, the update appears necessary from a security standpoint, but the potential impact on existing deployments and the looming end of support should be carefully considered.

Known Issues

• The installation of this Extended Security Update (ESU) might fail when trying to install it on an Azure Arc-enabled device that is running Windows Server 2012. To ensure a successful installation, administrators should make sure all Subset of endpoints for ESU only are met as described in the Connected Machine agent network requirements.

Disclaimer: We take measures to ensure that AI-generated content is of the highest possible quality, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend that users do their own independent research. Generated on 2026-02-28 01:18 AM

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