Navigating Optional Windows Updates

Desktop computers, both virtual and physical, remain at the core of professionals’ daily routines. With Dunetrails at the helm of providing current updates on such advancements, let’s delve into one of the new features: optional Windows updates. This feature ensures a seamless and secure experience for every user, but how can your organization best harness this capability? Let’s explore.

Understanding Optional Windows Updates

Windows optional updates are far from being mere enhancements. They are pivotal, especially with the introduction of non-security preview releases as part of the device’s regular upkeep. Every month, especially on its fourth week, optional updates are released. These encompass features, fixes, and crucial improvements that aim to enhance user productivity. For instance, a simple time zone update could significantly impact a global team’s coordination. To better understand how these fit into the broader picture, Windows has a comprehensive guide on monthly updates.

Moreover, Windows 11 brings forth the concept of gradual feature rollouts, termed either as Controlled Feature Rollouts (CFR) or simply as continuous innovation. This showcases Windows 11’s unwavering commitment to user experience, marrying proven methodologies with controllable mechanisms. Curious about how this functions? Delve into the mechanics in the Windows 11 innovation guide.

Taking Control of Updates in Windows 11

Previously, Windows 11 gave users commercial control over select features that could potentially impact organizational output. But today, the horizon has expanded. The new policy named “Enable optional updates” provides an elevated level of customization. You can:

1. Automatically Receive All Optional Updates: This includes gradual feature rollouts and the latest non-security updates.
2. Automatically Receive Only Non-Security Updates: This excludes the CFRs from automatic updates.
3. Empower User Choice: Here, users determine which optional updates they wish to receive.

It’s crucial to remember that devices will not experience changes unless this policy is activated.

Empowering Users with Optional Updates

Should you enable this policy, it’s pivotal to keep users informed. Users can either:

1. Choose specific updates from the Windows Update settings.
2. Opt for receiving immediate updates, which may necessitate a device restart.

However, some users might remain passive, awaiting the updates as per their usual schedule. Whichever path they choose, regular security updates will continue based on your configured settings.

For a more comprehensive understanding and steps on this new feature, check out the official documentation on Windows Update for Business.

Source: Enable and control optional updates for your organization – Microsoft Community Hub