Windows 11 users have exciting updates to look forward to in May 2024. The latest advancements focus on enhancing management and security features to provide a more secure computing environment. This article will delve into the key improvements introduced this month, specifically tailored for IT administrators and decision-makers who aim to stay ahead of the competition. It aligns with Microsoft's Secure Future Initiative, emphasizing security as a top priority for Windows systems.
New in Windows Security
- INTUNE Device Enrollment Attestation: Microsoft Intune now offers a feature to automatically verify Windows device health during device enrollment. This ensures that device enrollment certificates are bound to specific devices, preventing them from being copied to other devices.
- Public Preview of Passkeys: Organizations can move towards passwordless authentication with passkeys supported in Microsoft Entra ID. Passkeys are robust, phishing-resistant authentication methods based on the W3C WebAuthN standard, allowing secure sign-ins to various internet resources.
- Zero Trust DNS (ZTDNS): In private preview, ZTDNS restricts Windows devices to connect only to approved network destinations by domain name, enhancing security. It also blocks local network peer-to-peer sharing of Windows updates, suggesting the use of Microsoft Connected Cache or Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) to manage update traffic volume effectively.
- Developer Focus: Developers can explore the latest Windows security updates from Microsoft Build and enhance app security and reputation with trusted signing. The platform also offers skilling opportunities for developers to keep their skills up-to-date.
New in Device Management
- Updated Windows 11 Setup Guide: Users can access the refreshed Windows 11 setup guide from the Microsoft 365 admin center or the online Windows setup guides repository.
- Windows Autopilot Enhancements: Simplify device enrollment and deployment with updated Windows Autopilot device preparation policies available in the Microsoft Intune admin center. Additional improvements include troubleshooting Windows Update for Business reports and enhancing post-update reliability reporting.
- BYOD Enhancements: Users managing their PCs can now leverage new features such as managing Windows 11 Pro PCs from the Settings menu, exploring account settings, adding recovery email addresses, and backing up sound preferences, gradually rolling out starting with the May 2024 non-security preview update.
New in Copilot
- Standalone Copilot Application: Copilot can now be managed as a standalone application using familiar tools like Microsoft Intune, simplifying the management process.
- Copilot+ PCs: Organizations can benefit from advanced security features in Copilot+ PCs, including the Recall productivity feature, allowing users to search through their computing session history securely, with specific storage requirements.
New in Windows Server
- Windows Server 2025 Preview: Windows Server 2025, inclusive of Desktop Experience and Server Core installation options, is available for preview. Developers and IT communities can validate and explore this new release.
- Azure Edition Preview: Windows Server Insider users can preview Windows Server 2025 Datacenter: Azure Edition, expanding options for cloud-based server solutions.
New in Productivity and Collaboration
- Annual Feature Update: Prepare for the upcoming annual feature update by trying Windows 11, version 24H2 in the Release Preview Channel of the Windows Insider Program. Enhancements include improved file management in File Explorer and enhanced sharing capabilities across devices and apps. As Windows users embrace these enhancements, they contribute not only to securing their organizations but also to shaping the future of their computing environments. Stay informed and proactive to leverage the latest Windows innovations effectively.
