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As we close out the year, Microsoft has rolled out the latest cumulative updates for its server operating systems. For organizations running the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) release, the Windows Server 2022 LTSC 21H2 December update brings a fresh set of security patches and stability improvements.

Whether you are managing on-premises datacenters or hybrid environments, staying on top of these updates is crucial for maintaining a secure infrastructure. Here is a breakdown of what this specific release entails and what IT administrators need to know.

✅ Security – Patches for remote code execution in Windows Kerberos and DNS Server.
✅ Storage – Fix for CSV volume enumeration delays on failover clusters.
✅ Networking – Resolves TCP zero-window issue affecting SMB throughput.
✅ Hyper-V – Stability improvements for shielded VMs and Live Migration.
✅ Printing – Addresses spooler service high CPU usage with network printers.

Even though 21H2 is the base release, it brought groundbreaking capabilities:

For administrators deploying the "Decem Updated" image (media fresh install or patching):

While the core OS remains unchanged, every monthly rollup brings critical refinements. The December 2024 Update for Windows Server 2022 LTSC 21H2 x64 English focuses on three pillars:

Configuration Server2022DecUpdate 
    Import-DscResource -ModuleName PSDesiredStateConfiguration
    Node 'SRV-FILE01' 
        WindowsUpdateAgent UpdateToDec2024 
            UpdateId = 'kb5048654'
            Ensure = 'Present'

This is the pivot point of the article. “DecEM Updated” refers to the December 2024 cumulative update released on Patch Tuesday (second Tuesday of December). The update is officially labeled: KB5048654 (or a similar December-specific KB). However, due to Microsoft’s naming habits, “DecEM” (December – EMonth) is used in file-sharing and warez contexts to mark the ISO or update bundle.

What does the December 2024 update include?

If you are looking for the specific December 2024 updated media, you have three legitimate options.