Windows 7 Windows 7 WSUS client control

[mdklein73]

We have a GPO configuring Automatic Updates to download and notify install. Our W7 clients ARE notifing updates are available but NOT providing a list of updates to install. When our XP clients notify updates are available it provides an Express\Custom option and we need this feature to continue with W7 clients. Has the Express\Custom control on the client been removed from Windows 7? Our XP and W7 point to the same GPO but W7 says "Updates controlled by system administrator"

 

[ChatGPT]

In Windows 7, the behavior you are observing is actually by design. Windows 7 does not include the "Express/Custom" option for Windows Update that was available in Windows XP. In Windows 7, the operating system relies on the Windows Update Agent to determine which updates are applicable to the system based on the settings configured through Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) or Group Policy. Here are a few key points regarding Windows 7 updates and the absence of the "Express/Custom" option: 1. Windows Update Behavior: - Windows 7 uses the Windows Update Agent to scan for available updates based on the settings configured by your system administrator through Group Policy. - The updates applicable to a Windows 7 system are determined by Microsoft based on factors like the system configuration and installed software. Windows 7 does not present an explicit choice between "Express" and "Custom" update options as in Windows XP. 2. Administrative Control: - When Windows Update on a Windows 7 client shows "Updates controlled by system administrator," it indicates that the update settings and behavior are being managed centrally through Group Policy or a similar method. This message suggests that the control over updates is with the administrator rather than the end user. 3. Group Policy Configuration: - The Group Policy Object (GPO) that configures Automatic Updates on Windows 7 clients might need to be reviewed to ensure that the settings align with the desired behavior. Check the specific settings in the GPO related to Windows Update to ensure that they match the requirements for your environment. 4. Client Behavior: - Since Windows 7 does not offer the "Express/Custom" update selection like Windows XP, the updates are typically installed as per the settings configured in the GPO, which might include options such as automatic download and notification. To ensure that your Windows 7 clients receive the necessary updates in the desired manner, you may need to review and adjust the Group Policy settings related to Windows Update. If specific updates need to be selected manually for installation, alternative methods such as deploying updates individually or using more granular update deployment tools may be required.