Windows 10 updates
Windows 10 updates include the newest features and security patches. There are four Windows 10 update branches -- Insider Preview, Current Branch, Current Branch for Business and Long Term Servicing Branch -- which give organizations different update cadences. IT must know how each branch works and decide the best approach for dealing with Windows 10 automatic updates.
Top Stories
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Tip
08 Dec 2021
How to troubleshoot when Windows 10 won't update
Windows updates can lead to unexpected issues for IT administrators, but there are some simple steps they should always take to find the cause of the update issue. Continue Reading
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News
08 Oct 2021
Windows 11 bugs cause app slowdown on AMD chips
The flaws can slow application performance by as much as 15% on high-performance PCs for gaming and other demanding software. AMD said a fix will come this month. Continue Reading
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News
01 Sep 2021
Microsoft announces release date for Windows 11
Windows 11 will include integration with unified communications platform Teams but won't initially include the option to download Android apps. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jun 2021
Enterprise IT pros unclear on Microsoft Windows 11 benefits
Microsoft recently unveiled Windows 11, but its consumer-focused presentation left IT pros with questions about hardware requirements and the business benefits for the new OS. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 May 2021
VPN and cloud-based printing options change with the times
Print workflow and IT infrastructure are key considerations when choosing between a VPN and cloud printing setup that can accommodate the needs of a hybrid workforce. Continue Reading
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News
17 Feb 2021
Microsoft crowdsources notifications for Edge
Microsoft wants the crowd to determine which notification requests are seen in Edge. The company has introduced a system to show useful notifications and hide annoying ones. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2021
Microsoft to drop Edge Legacy from upcoming Windows update
Microsoft is doing some spring cleaning with its Edge browser. The April Windows update will uninstall Edge Legacy and replace it with the new, Chromium-based Edge. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Jan 2021
Will Windows 10 be the last Windows OS?
It's difficult to say whether Windows 10 will be the final version of the Windows OS, but a look at Microsoft's history and approach to OSes may shed some light on the situation. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2021
WUfB vs. WSUS: Which handles Windows updates better?
Trying to get a handle on Windows updates can frustrate even the most seasoned administrators. Which of these two patch management tools fit best in your environment? Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2020
Windows 10 updates to avoid and how to address them
While Windows administrators can never ignore Microsoft's updates, it may make sense to delay or even avoid Windows updates until they are stable for enterprise users. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jul 2020
Microsoft launches Windows File Recovery tool
Despite the prevalence of cloud storage and data backups, important files are still lost. Microsoft's Windows File Recovery tool aims to address the problem. Continue Reading
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News
24 Apr 2020
For IT, Windows 10 update 2004 complicated by COVID-19
Microsoft's Windows 10 update 2004 is set to release amid the coronavirus pandemic. Experts and IT admins say the appetite for new features may be mixed. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Apr 2020
Combat Windows update issues with a consistent testing plan
When it comes to deploying Windows updates, there is one key step that IT must take to ensure users' productivity isn't hindered: a comprehensive plan for testing the updates. Continue Reading
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News
21 Feb 2020
Latest Windows 10 update issue another QA stain
Microsoft pulled a Windows 10 security fix this month, causing experts to call for more testing and oversight -- again. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
28 Jan 2020
Reboot Clears Defender Error 0x80070643
I learn that a reboot clears Defender error 0x80070643 when an antimalware engine update fails to install. I also learn about the great new Microsoft Error Lookup Tool. Good stuff! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
15 Jan 2020
Odd KB4528760 Error 0X80073712 Gets Easy Fix
On Patch Tuesday, 5 of 6 machines get through without issue. On machine 6, it turns out happily that KB4528760 error 0X80073712 gets easy fix. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
13 Jan 2020
Microsoft Changes WU Driver Inclusion Rules
In the way of well-reported issues with updated device drivers for Intel graphics and networking, Realtek audio and Bluetooth, and more in 2019, MS changes its rule for bundling unapproved drivers ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
23 Dec 2019
Windows 10 2004 Gets View Optional Updates
With the latest 20H1/2004 release (Build 15636), Windows 10 2004 Gets View Optional Updates. Now users can see, select, and manage pending optional updates explicitly and directly. Continue Reading
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News
20 Dec 2019
Windows 10 issues continue with Autopilot update
Microsoft recently rolled out a Windows 10 update to general users that was intended only for Autopilot-configured machines. After past issues, are users comfortable with Windows OS updates? Continue Reading
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News
04 Dec 2019
Windows 10 issues top list of most read stories for IT pros
IT pros seemed focused on the latest Microsoft OS, based on our most read stories for 2019. That may not come as a surprise, given next month's end-of-life deadline for Windows 7. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
30 Oct 2019
Autopilot Gets Oct 22 False Alarm Update
MS Autopilot gets Oct 22 false alarm Update as it shows up on some Windows 10 Home and Enterprise PCs where Autopilot is not in play. The update fails with no negative side effects, thank goodness. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Oct 2019
10 Microsoft Ignite 2019 sessions for Windows admins
Windows OS admins attending Microsoft Ignite 2019 will have a variety of relevant sessions from which to choose. Consider these 10 sessions to get new management techniques and tips. Continue Reading
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News
09 Oct 2019
October Patch Tuesday resolves 59 vulnerabilities
Microsoft attempts to stamp out printing issues that originated from a faulty out-of-band patch for an Internet Explorer zero-day. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
04 Oct 2019
Mystery Error Code 0x80242016 Follows KB4524147
When a mystery error code 0x80242016 follows KB4524147 -- it means unexpected state after reboot following update -- a second try succeeds. Thank goodness! Unexpected states can be surprisingly ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
01 Oct 2019
MS Explains Machine Learning Role in Windows 10 Update Experience
In a recent Microsoft blog post, MS explains Machine Learning role in Windows 10 Update experience, particularly how safeguards (update holds) are identified and eventually, cleared. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
20 Sep 2019
Two New Known Issues Already Resolved Sept 19
In what's looking increasingly like a weekly update schedule, two New Known Issues already resolved Sept 19 show up today. One is resolved, but I'm not so sure about the other. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
16 Sep 2019
4 New 1903 Known Issues 9/13/2019
With 4 New 1903 Known Issues 9/13/2019 MS continues to do a bang-up job of keeping up with reports and issues "in the wild." Thanks very much! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
03 Sep 2019
1903 KB4512941 Garnering Numerous Issues
When I say 1903 KB4512941 Garnering Numerous Issues, I'm talking about three or more actual gotchas, one of which stymies successful installation. Be wary! Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Aug 2019
Windows 10 19H2 update brings few changes, more confusion
Windows 10 updates have plagued IT since the inception of the OS. Microsoft may be attempting to assuage IT's concerns with the Windows 10 19H2 update. Continue Reading
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News
16 Aug 2019
New Windows vulnerabilities reveal there is no rest for weary IT
The two latest Windows security vulnerabilities reiterate the importance for IT admins to stay diligent when updating and managing an organization's operating system. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
29 Jul 2019
KB4505903 Fixes DPC Latency Issue
When Microsoft release Version 1903 of Win10 some users reported audio issues. MS Engineer Pete Brown tweets that KB4505903 fixes DPC Latency Issue. May users confirm this fix. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jul 2019
3 Windows 10 known issues and how to fix them
There are a few issues that accompanied the Windows 10 1903 update. Before deploying the latest update, IT admins should familiarize themselves with the most common problems. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
17 Jul 2019
Recent Win10 Updates Bollix Defender Module Hashes
Recent Win10 Updates bollix Defender module hashes. This makes SFC /SCANNOW report "corrupt files," but there's an easy fix (described in this post). Continue Reading
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News
16 Jul 2019
Despite Windows 10 issues, customers remain confident in OS
The issues surrounding the latest Windows 10 OS update have affected some users to the point of annoyance, while others remain unaffected and unfazed by the continued issues. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
15 Jul 2019
Is Windows 10 19H2 Now Called Version Next?
The label applied for the latest Slow Ring Insider Preview has me asking: Is Windows 10 19H2 Now Called Version Next? Only time will tell . . . Continue Reading
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Blog Post
12 Jul 2019
Resuming Work Underscores Routine Windows Admin Workload
After returning from 10 days of vacation, resuming work underscores routine Windows Admin workload is noticeable and time-consuming, if also knocked off with relative ease. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jul 2019
How to take advantage of 3 features in Windows 1903 update
Windows Autopilot, reserved storage and SetupDiag are three new features in Windows 10. Here's how IT admins can use them for improved desktop management. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
28 Jun 2019
Accommodating WU Download and Install Now (KB4501375)
To my surprise, accommodating WU Download and Install Now for KB4501375 involves changes in my own update behaviors, and comes as a bit of a shock. Consider yourself warned. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jun 2019
IT takes the good with the bad in Windows 10 1903 update
Windows 10 updates have never been easy, but Microsoft is finally listening to its customers' woes. Here's what IT pros like and dislike about Microsoft's latest Windows 10 update. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
19 Jun 2019
Older Win10 Versions Facing Forced Updates
By fiat Microsoft has older Win10 versions facing forced updates to the 1903 version (aka Windows 10 May 2019 Update). Here's what up, with a possible coping strategy. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
12 Jun 2019
Understanding Win10 WU Download and install now option
In the past month, Windows 10 versions from 1803 forward have gotten a new update option. In fact, understanding Win10 WU Download and install now option should ease many admins' and users' update ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
15 May 2019
Install KB4494441 CU Twice
Possibly because a new servicing stack update (SSU) is required to make it work, users must invariably install KB4494441 CU twice to get to Build 17768.503. Very interesting! Continue Reading
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Tip
15 May 2019
What IT should know about the Microsoft Office app for Windows 10
Microsoft released a new Microsoft Office app during an update to Windows 10. Learn about the changes that this new app brings and how to take advantage of its features. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
26 Apr 2019
Web-based vs Offline DotNET 4.8 Installers
The tradeoff in using web-based vs offline DotNET 4.8 installers is time. Web-based installers are quicker to download but take longer to work through installation. Vice-versa for offline installers. Continue Reading
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News
19 Apr 2019
Latest Windows 10 update issues cause more freezing problems
This news brief details the additional issues around the April 9 Windows 10 update as well as provides a look at Microsoft's Edge browser, built using Google's open sourced web browser Chromium. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Apr 2019
Top Windows 10 issues facing IT
Windows 10 can be a challenging OS for both end users and IT admins. Here, IT pros discuss the biggest challenges they've experienced with Windows 10 management. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
03 Apr 2019
Win10 KB4490481 Could Leave 6 Reclaimable Packages Behind
The latest Cumulative Update Win10 KB4490481 leaves 6 reclaimable packages behind. That's 3 or 4 more than usual, and amounts to over 9 GB of obsolete material. Definitely worth cleaning up. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
02 Apr 2019
Second Reboot Fixes DISM StartComponentCleanup Error 6824
Second reboot fixes DISM StartComponentCleanup error 6824, so if you see this you can make it work that way, too. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Mar 2019
How can IT assign PCs to Windows 10 servicing channels?
Microsoft offers different tools to assign Windows 10 PCs to servicing channels. Learn how to assign desktops to servicing channels using a multi-tiered strategy. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Mar 2019
How to navigate Windows 10 update problems
It's often a hassle for IT admins to manage and control Windows 10 updates. Follow these tips to make the Windows update process as smooth as possible. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
26 Mar 2019
Win10 1903 Policy Handles Automatic Updates and Restarts
A new Win10 1903 policy handles Automatic Updates and Restarts. Here's how to find, enable, and manipulate its settings. Continue Reading
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News
12 Mar 2019
March Patch Tuesday shuts down two zero-day exploits
In addition to the March Patch Tuesday updates, Microsoft's attempts at improving performance following Spectre variant 2 patches backfire for some users on Windows 10. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
04 Mar 2019
Academics Say MS Updates Confuse Win10 Home Users
Based on a recent study, academics say MS Updates confuse Win10 Home users. Most of their observations apply to those who manage updates for other Windows 10 versions, too. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Feb 2019
What IT needs to know about Windows 10 update troubleshooting
The Windows update process can cause a whole slew of problems for users and IT. Get acquainted with these Windows 10 update troubleshooting tips and make the process a lot easier. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Jan 2019
How can IT keep pace with the Windows update process?
Staying current with the latest Windows updates is a difficult task, but IT can accomplish this without harming the UX with Group Policy, disk capacity planning and more. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Jan 2019
How can you perform a full Windows Update reset?
When Windows Update malfunctions, IT must follow this four-step process to fix the problems. Be sure to have admin privileges before getting started. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Dec 2018
Opinions of Windows 10 run hot and cold for IT experts
The past year was a roller coaster ride for Windows 10. Microsoft had to put out fires with the October 2018 Update, but it also announced welcome changes to the Edge browser. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
14 Dec 2018
Late-Month WU Items Equal Update Previews
It's good to know that late-month WU items equal update previews. Those unwilling to deal with possibly shaky code should wait for Patch Tuesday and push updates instead. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
07 Dec 2018
Win10 Servicing Stack Updates Support CUs
Win10 Servicing Stack Updates Support CUs (Cumulative Updates) by pre-emptively addressing possible issues and problems with a CU's content and changes. That's why an SSU normally accompanies each ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
05 Dec 2018
Cumulative Update KB4469342 Weaves Tortuous Win10 Track
After four releases, each new one to unsnarl problems from its predecessors, Cumulative Update KB4469342 weaves tortuous Win10 track for the 1809 release. Continue Reading
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News
15 Nov 2018
Microsoft reissues Windows 10 October Update, Server 2019
Windows Server 2019 and the Windows 10 October Update are back in IT admins' hands, six weeks after the company pulled them from the market when some users reported lost data. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
12 Nov 2018
1809 Users Missing Critical Fixes
I was surprised to learn that 1809 users missing critical fixes must join the Insider Preview program to receive them. Fortunately, it's an easy fix. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Nov 2018
How can you pause Windows Update with Group Policy?
Mistimed updates in Windows 10 can drive users crazy and cost organizations in terms of productivity. There are steps you can take to pause these updates, however. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
22 Oct 2018
Can WUMgr Replace WUMT?
As I get to know David Xanatos Windows Update Manager tool, I find myself asking: Can WUMgr replace WUMT. At present, I'm leaning toward "Yes!" But only time will tell. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Oct 2018
What's new in the Microsoft Windows 10 October 2018 Update?
The Windows 10 October 2018 Update might be best known for some of the problems it caused, but it also added some features that can help business users and IT pros. Continue Reading
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News
12 Oct 2018
Microsoft Windows 10 October 2018 Update stumbles out of gate
The most recent Windows 10 update includes enhancements for business users, but it ran into major problems shortly after its release. Continue Reading
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Photo Story
24 Sep 2018
Five Microsoft Windows 10 features to know in the enterprise
IT professionals transitioning their organization's desktops to Windows 10 should understand the best Windows 10 features, such as Microsoft Cortana and Windows Defender's new tools. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
21 Sep 2018
Getting KB4458469 Installed When Windows Update Offer Absent
Getting KB4458469 installed when Windows Update offer absent requires manual update. A quick download from the Microsoft Update Catalog, and all is well. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Sep 2018
Windows 10 updates options to ease the process
Windows 10 update issues are commonplace in the enterprise, but IT isn't helpless to deal with them. Group Policy and other tools can help IT regain control over updates. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Sep 2018
What to do if Windows Defender updates don't work
Without the latest Windows Defender updates, your users' desktops won't be completely protected. When update problems occur, there are several actions you can take to solve them. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2018
Reduce update-related downtime after a Windows 10 OS upgrade
Windows 10 updates are a necessary evil, as they add new features and improve security, but also cause downtime for users. IT can downplay the negative effects of updates. Continue Reading
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News
27 Aug 2018
VMware Workspace One updates aim to ease Windows 10 management
VMware added new Windows 10 desktop management features for IT administrators and end users in its Workspace One updates at VMworld. Plus, AirLift gets general availability. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
27 Aug 2018
PS Get-HotFix Cmdlet Checks Update Status
For those who want to know if a Windows update or upgrade is present or absent, the PS Get-HotFix Cmdlet checks update status. Here's how to use it. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Aug 2018
Understand Windows Insider Program for Business options
With its business-friendly Insider Program, Microsoft allows IT and users to test Windows 10 preview builds for compatibility and performance issues. Continue Reading
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Guide
21 Aug 2018
How to solve Windows 10 updates problems
Nothing is more annoying than an OS update that breaks something or won't load right. Windows admins may need some tips and tools to manage Windows 10 updates now that they're automatic. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Aug 2018
How can IT fix Windows Update issues?
Microsoft offers some built-in troubleshooting methods to resolve Windows Update problems. There are also some third-party options IT should be aware of. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Aug 2018
How to stop Windows 10 updates temporarily
A poorly timed Windows 10 update can cause a major headache for an end user. Fortunately, users can pause updates or IT can take steps to halt updates using Group Policy. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Aug 2018
7 features for managing Windows 10 updates and upgrades
Managing updates and upgrades in Windows 10 is tough. Fortunately, Microsoft includes seven features in the OS, including SetupDiag, that IT pros can use to simplify both processes. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
11 Jul 2018
MS Smartens Update Downloads
By downloading updates from smallest to largest in size in that order, and downloading updates in pairs, MS smartens Update downloads. Now, if I could only figure out what determines update ... Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Jul 2018
How can IT turn off Windows 10 automatic updates?
In some cases, IT pros should disable Windows 10 updates to gain control over the process. They can use methods such as editing group policies and setting a metered connection. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
04 Jul 2018
DISM Cleans Up After Windows Update
Because DISM cleans up after Windows Update adds new items to Win10, it's a good idea to use its AnalyzeComponentStore and CleanupComponentStore directives from time to time. Here's how! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
23 Apr 2018
Build 1803 Equals April Update
Based on the content of the Edge Welcome screen in Build 17134, it seems pretty safe to proclaim that Build 1803 Equals April Update. Continue Reading