Microsoft Delays Automatic Updates During Windows OOBE for MDM Devices

A recent announcement from Microsoft reveals a shift in the Windows enrollment experience, particularly for devices managed via Mobile Device Management (MDM). Initially, Microsoft intended for certain cumulative updates to install during the Out of Box Experience (OOBE)—the initial setup phase that welcomes new users to their devices. However, plans have now been delayed, and the approach will require more granular control over which updates are applicable during setup.

Key Changes in Windows Enrollment for MDM​

In summary, Microsoft is pausing the rollout of updates that would see cumulative Windows updates automatically install during OOBE for Intune-managed devices. While this might sound like a setback, there are underlying factors at play that may ultimately lead to a more refined and user-centered experience.
When Windows 11 devices connect to the internet during the OOBE process, they are set to automatically check for and download quality updates, which are primarily security-focused. This is aimed at ensuring users begin their experience with the most up-to-date version of Windows while reinforcing device security from the very start.
Technical Insights on the OOBE Updates

1. Installation Process Variability: The update installation will depend significantly on the device's hardware capabilities and the user’s internet connectivity, ensuring that notifications will keep users updated on progress.
2. Compulsory Updates: Users will not have the option to opt-out of these critical updates, aligning with Microsoft's strategy to enhance security during the initial setup.

This new approach mirrors broader industry trends focusing on security and user experience. With increasing concerns about cybersecurity, delivering quality updates during initial setup is becoming an essential feature rather than a mere convenience.

Implications for IT Administrators​

The implications of this delay and updated process are significant for IT administrators, particularly concerning longer setup times. The automatic installation of updates could impede rapid device deployment—an aspect critical for many organizations. Administrators will have to adjust their provisioning schedules and possibly extend the validity of temporary access credentials to facilitate user enrollment.
The Dual-Edged Sword of Enhanced Security versus Setup Efficiency
This move by Microsoft comes with advantages and disadvantages:

• Pros:
  • Increased Security: Ensures critical updates are installed right out of the box, enhancing the device's security measures against prevalent cyber threats.
• Cons:
  • Extended Setup Time: The additional time taken to install updates may frustrate organizations aiming for quick device roll-out. This could lead to challenges in environments where efficiency is paramount.

Balancing the need for immediate security enhancements with effective onboarding processes becomes crucial. Furthermore, the reliance on IT teams to manage these updates efficiently in a hybrid or remote work context signals a larger shift in how organizations will approach device management moving forward.
Feedback and the Path Ahead
As Microsoft continues to navigate user feedback on these changes, engagement with IT administrators and end-users will be essential. Understanding their requirements and concerns can help shape future updates, allowing Microsoft to position itself more effectively in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Ultimately, the decision to delay these automatic installations during OOBE represents a careful consideration of user experience, administrator needs, and security concerns. As Windows 11 evolves, discussions surrounding these updates will play a key role in shaping the operating system's future, particularly as it competes against user-friendly alternatives.

Conclusion​

While Microsoft's delay in rolling out automatic cumulative updates during OOBE may initially seem like a setback, it provides an opportunity to rethink and optimize for a more secure and efficient user experience in the long run. The engagement of IT departments and end-users will be integral to refining this process. The forthcoming changes highlight Microsoft's ongoing commitment to adapting its processes to align with user needs while addressing pressing security concerns in today's digital environment.
Source: Neowin Microsoft delays plans to install cumulative Windows updates during OOBE on MDM devices