GKE Deprecates Non-Release Channel Clusters, Freezes Windows Server 2019 Image Updates

Per the June 10, 2026 release note , the configuration option to not enroll your cluster in a release channel is deprecated, and will be removed on June 14, 2027. In alignment with this deprecation, creating new clusters not enrolled in a release channel is now only allowed for existing customers. New customers can use a release channel, where you can achieve the same functionality as not enrolling your cluster in a release channel. For more information, see Clusters not enrolled in a release channel .

The Windows Server 2019 (LTSC) GKE node image doesn't receive updates after the December 2025 version. Windows Server 2019 (LTSC) is in the Extended Support period of the Microsoft fixed lifecycle policy and receives only security updates. To prevent stability issues, the GKE node image for Windows Server 2019 (LTSC) is pinned to the December 2025 version. If you use this node image, switch to Windows Server 2022 (LTSC), which is in the Mainstream Support period and receives updates from Microsoft and GKE. For more information, see Creating a cluster using Windows Server node pools .