[German]Microsoft provides different types of updates for Windows (10 and 11). These range from the monthly security and quality updates on patchday to preview updates and out-of-band updates. This is all known to well-informed administrators and users. But Microsoft has probably seen the need to write that down again (and also for Windows 11) in more detail.
Advertising
The topic has already come under my eyes the week in tweets like from WZOR or the following tweet.
Microsoft has once again broken down the technical terms used around updates in a blog post Windows quality updates primer in the tech community. Microsoft's reasons for doing so is that, as the general availability of Windows 11 draws ever closer, we thought it would be a good time for a refresher on Windows' monthly quality updates. For the blog readership that isn't quite up to speed, here's a condensed overview:
- B-Week security updates: On Tuesday in the 2nd week of a month (B-Week), the so-called Patchdas (Patch Tuesday) gives the cumulative security updates, which also already published security fixes of the previous months as well as non-security content, which were introduced in the preview version "C" of the previous month, include. These updates keep Windows systems secure and compliant by providing stability fixes and addressing security vulnerabilities. These B-Week updates are mandatory (mandatory) and are delivered through our standard channels, including Windows Update, Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), and the Microsoft Update Catalog.
- C-Week Optional Preview Updates: In the 3rd week of a month (C-Week), preview updates are provided for testing the security updates planned for B-Week in the following month. These cumulative preview updates are optional and represent non-security related pre-releases. These so-called "C" releases are offered only for the latest supported versions of Windows. New features such as messages and interests may be initially deployed in the previous month's "C" preview release, and will then be delivered in the following month's "B" release.
To access "C" version updates, navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates.
- Out-of-band Updates (OOB): Out-of-Band Updatesare provided, if necessary, to address a recently identified issue or vulnerability. They are used in atypical cases, such as security vulnerabilities or quality issues, when devices should be updated immediately instead of waiting for the next monthly quality update. Microsoft is keeping mum about the delivery of these updates. From my experience, the delivery of these updates is often done by manual download from the Microsoft Update Catalog – but in case of serious security issues, also via other channels like Windows Update. Here you have to study the relevant support articles (KB articles) to determine the distribution channels.
As of July 21, 2021, Microsoft has also updated the Monthly quality updates page. The above update variants are also listed there again. Apart from that, Microsoft still provides information about updates, problems and fixed issues on the following two pages:
Advertising
Advertising
