Microsoft Adjusts Windows Update Strategy for Holiday Season

As we approach the holiday season, Microsoft is making some adjustments to its patching strategy for Windows 10 and Windows 11. Following the release of the November 2024 Patch Tuesday updates, users can expect a lighter update schedule next month. Notably, this will affect the non-security updates traditionally released as part of Microsoft's monthly servicing model. Let’s delve into the details and understand what this means for you.

The November 2024 Patch Tuesday Updates​

On November 12, 2024, Microsoft rolled out its monthly Patch Tuesday updates for both Windows 10 and Windows 11. These updates included essential security patches (such as KB5046617 and KB5046633 for Windows 11 and multiple updates for Windows 10 like KB5046613 and KB5046615) aimed at keeping systems secure from vulnerabilities. Microsoft also hinted at some quality fixes and new features coming later in November.

What’s Changing in December?​

Due to minimal operations during the Western holiday season, Microsoft announced that there would be no non-security updates in December 2024. This means users should only look forward to the regular security update scheduled for December 10, 2024. This change may come as a relief to some who are wary of potentially buggy updates, especially in light of last month's issues that affected Task Manager on Windows 11 version 24H2 and caused glitches in certain applications on Windows 10.

Implications of Fewer Updates​

Security vs. Non-Security Updates​

To clarify, security updates are mandatory and installed automatically. They focus on fixing vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware or hackers. Non-security updates, on the other hand, are more of a mixed bag. While they often include quality-of-life improvements and minor new features, they also have a history of introducing new bugs or system breakdowns.
For instance, last month’s non-security updates not only crippled Task Manager on some systems but also broke compatibility with various applications. For users opting for non-security updates, this raises a key question: Is it worth it? If you’re not experiencing major issues, it might be prudent to skip these optional updates altogether.

User Considerations​

What Should You Do?​

1. Stick with Security Updates: Always ensure that your system is up to date with critical security patches. These are essential for safeguarding your system.
2. Be Cautious with Non-Security Updates: If you choose to install optional updates, be prepared for potential bugs. Consider waiting until community feedback validates the update's stability.
3. Stay Informed: Follow announcements from Microsoft and trusted tech news sources to keep abreast of all developments. This knowledge is crucial for maintaining system security and performance.
4. Feedback Loop: If you encounter issues after an update, make sure to report them, contributing to a feedback loop that can help Microsoft pinpoint and resolve issues faster.

Wrapping Up​

The reduction in updates for December marks a significant change in Microsoft's patching strategy. While security updates will continue as usual, the absence of non-security updates could be seen as a double-edged sword. On one hand, it reduces potential instability during the holiday season; on the other, it might leave users without new features or improvements for a brief period.
As Windows users, staying informed and cautious is key. Make the most of the updates you do receive and remember: a well-informed user is a secure user! Prepare your systems for the holiday break and enjoy the festivities without the hassle of unexpected glitches.
Feel free to discuss your experiences with these updates or ask questions in the comments below!

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Source: Neowin Windows 11 and 10 are getting fewer updates next month