Windows Nano Server 2016 Container Image Tagging Options

With the release of Windows Nano Server 2016 version 1709, we have more download options for the new and old Container Image.

Now, we can download the Nano Server Image as version 1709 or 1709 with a specific patch level or use the old Image on the same Container Host.

With Hyper-V Containers, we can run pre-1709 Nano Server Image on a 1709 Container Host using Hyper-V isolation.

Running Pre-1709 and 1709 Containers side by side is very handy and efficient with Hyper-V Containers.

However, we cannot run a 1709 Image on a Windows Server 2016 host regardless If we use Hyper-V Containers or not.

Below you can see the official Nano Server Image and all the tags that allow us to select the image.

If you look at the tagging you have the option to Download

To download any of the specific ones we use the line below

Docker pull microsoft/nanoserver:tag

To download the latest Nano Server Image with the up to date updates I’ll use:

docker pull microsoft/nanoserver:1709_KB4043961

And as you can see below, I’ve downloaded all the Nano Images to my Container Host

To run a normal Windows Nano Server 2016 Container Image on my 1709 Container host I’ll need to use Hyper-V isolation with the command

docker container run --isolation=hyperv microsoft/nanoserver:sac2016 hostname

Note: I’m using the new expanded Docker CLI syntax (docker Container) which is optional.

As seen above the I’m running the latest Nano Server Image on my 1709 host Inside a Hyper-V Container.

Using Hyper-V Isolation allows us to expand our capabilities with more container Image options.

About Windows Server 2016 1709

First announced five months ago, Windows Server 2016 version 1709 released a Semi-Annual Channel with 18 months support (more details below).

Long and Semi-Annual Channel

As Announced a few months ago, Windows Server will be available in two release modules.

Long-Term Servicing channel – This Is the current and most familiar module where a new operating system version is released every 2-3 years with 5 years support cycle.
Semi-Annual Channel – This new module will offer two new releases every year with new features and roles, support will be available for 18 months.

The Semi-Annual Channel will only be available for Volume Licensing Customers with Software Assurance.

If you don’t have Software Assurance you can use Microsoft Azure where it’s available.