This is magnified by the cumulative nature of updates, where subsequent updates will include previously-missed patches.Ī Windows 10 device can be put into one of two categories, called Channels or Branches, to determine how often it receives updates: This system removes a lot of granularity previously granted to System Administrators over individual patches. With Windows 10, updates are contained within one or two monthly update rollups instead of smaller individual update packs. These used to be used by Microsoft as a convenience to users setting up new devices with legacy operating systems. Administrators who opt out of installing them will see the same patches included in that month’s Quality Update. Security Updates are bundles of security-related patches released a few weeks before a Quality Update. They are small bundles of software drivers installed as demanded by the system in response to hardware requirements.Īs of April 2017, Windows 10 (not Server 2016) will be receiving Security Updates. These remain more or less as they always were. They are often large in size (more than 2 GB) and require a specific method of installation. Refer to Windows 10 versions.įeature Updates are delivered as new operating systems over Electronic Software Distribution (ESD files). An example is version 1607, the Anniversary Update. Windows 10 uses a dual-naming versioning system: a four-digit number (month and year) followed by a nickname. A Feature Update upgrades Windows 10's version, adding new features, interface changes and (often) new management considerations. Older operating systems received lots of smaller updates, while Windows 10 receives update rollups which contain all of the smaller updates in a single unit. It is an update which requires rebooting the computer and which carries a number of small, quality-of-life improvements and security fixes. This is analogous to an old-style KB update or an update on 'Update Tuesday'.

Users can expect to see the following terms used when handling Windows 10 updates: Termįrom Microsoft: 'Windows Update for Business is a collection of policy settings that control updates for devices that use Windows 10.'

Windows update rollup may 2019