A question we've received a few times recently is what version 1709 means for OEM SKUs. Because 1709 is only available via channels such as Software Assurance and Azure Virtual Machines, it doesn't have an impact on the currently shipping editions of Windows Server 2016 in the OEM channel.
If you aren't familiar with version 1709, it is focused on very specific scenarios, and as it doesn't include a GUI it does not replace your existing server with GUI deployments, such as Windows Server Essentials or Remote Desktop Services, amongst others. In other words this is a Server Core only release.
Take a look at the following posts and the comments sections to get a clearer understanding of why this is not a release of Windows Server 2016 for all usage scenarios.
FAQ on Windows Server, version 1709 and Semi-Annual Channel
Windows Server, version 1709 available for download!
Faster releases for a faster world – First semi-annual release of Windows Server