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Microsoft simplifies Windows 10 optional monthly updates
2 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
In April, Microsoft released the lastnon-security updateand paused the so-called C and D releases to concentrate only on thesecurity updatesin the face of the global pandemic.
Based on feedback, Microsoftannouncedthat they will resume optional releases in July of 2020 forWindows 10and Windows Server, version 1809 and later.
There was, however, an exception, as Microsoft justreleased an optional updateto fix printing problems that started to occur after June security updates.
However, that update is only available in the Microsoft Update Catalog and not in Windows Update.
Microsoft changes the update process
With this announcement, Microsoft also specifies that they will also change the update process to simplify it.
First, in response to feedback, these validated, production-quality optional releases will be now calledPreviewreleases for clarity, and will be offered only forWindows10 andWindowsServer, version 1809 and later.
The naming will also change in the release title from theWindowsUpdate page so that you know exactly what the update is all about.
The preview releases will only appear in the C week
To simplify update management for the IT department, the Preview releases will be delivered only in the C week. So there will be a specific week in a month dedicated to C releases.
However, if you’re anInsider, you will receive the C updates in the Release Preview Channel in the B week.
Microsoft specified that there won’t be any change to the cumulative monthly security updates (B release) or Update Tuesday releases.
Also for those who useWindowsServer Update Services (WSUS) to manage updates, you will no longer see Preview (or C) releases forWindows10 orWindowsServer in the WSUS channel.
What do you think about the new update system for optional, non-security updates? Let us know in the comments below.
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More about the topics:windows 10 updates
Claudiu Andone
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Oldtimer in the tech and science press, Claudiu is focused on whatever comes new from Microsoft.
His abrupt interest in computers started when he saw the first Home Computer as a kid. However, his passion for Windows and everything related became obvious when he became a sys admin in a computer science high school.
With 14 years of experience in writing about everything there is to know about science and technology, Claudiu also likes rock music, chilling in the garden, and Star Wars. May the force be with you, always!
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Claudiu Andone
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Oldtimer in the tech and science press, with 14 years of experience in writing on everything there is to know about science, technology, and Microsoft
