Microsoft Announces Major Changes to Windows Update in Windows 11

In addition to the Windows Insider Program changes, Microsoft is also rolling out major Windows Update changes today that’s tied to the March announcement about fixing the “pain points” in Windows 11. The changes to Windows Update are also rolling out first to the Windows Insider Program’s new Dev and Experimental channels.

“I’ve had the opportunity to read over 7,621 direct verbatims over the last few months,” Microsoft’s Aria Hanson writes, a curiously specific and vague claim. “Across this feedback there are two key themes that persistently pop out: Disruption caused by untimely updates and not enough controls over when updates happen. The changes we’re rolling out today are focused on giving Windows users more control over their PC experience, while keeping devices secure by design and by default.”

Here’s what’s changing.

More control over updates. Microsoft is giving consumers the ability to skip updates during the Windows Setup Out of Box Experience (OOBE), a change I’ve already experienced while setting up new computers, extend update pauses indefinitely in 35 day increments, and shut down or restart a PC without installing pending updates (another change I’ve already experienced). And it will provide users with more insight on available updates so they can make more informed install decisions.

Fewer disruptions. Microsoft is “unifying” the Windows 11 update experience by “coordinating driver, .NET, and firmware updates to align with the monthly [Patch Tuesday] quality update [which is a security update that includes new features], reducing the update experience to a single monthly restart.” Those who navigate to Windows Update in the Settings app will see a new “Available updates” section that can be expanded so they can install all or some of the pending updates.

Secure by default. Microsoft is reducing the time it takes to install updates and adding an automatic recovery feature to fix update failures.

It’s not clear when these changes will roll out to consumers using the shipping, stable version of Windows 11 or to commercial customers. Microsoft says it will have more to share soon.