Why is Microsoft deprecating Windows Server Update Services (WSUS)?
Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) has been deprecated, indicating there will be no further development and it will not receive any new functionalities. Microsoft will no longer make new investments in WSUS features.
Launched in 2005, WSUS was aimed to help IT administrators centrally manage and deploy updates across Microsoft products within large organizations where manual updates are impractical. Microsoft’s decision to deprecate WSUS is to promote the transition of IT administrative functions to cloud-based solutions, moving away from dependency on WSUS.
What does Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) deprecation mean for businesses?
While WSUS will continue to operate with its existing features, and Microsoft will still send updates through WSUS, it will not be enhanced with any new functions or capabilities. This decision impacts numerous enterprise environments that depend on WSUS for their update management. Notably, WSUS driver synchronization was previously deprecated in favor of new, cloud-oriented driver services. The complete deprecation of WSUS is scheduled for April 18, 2025.
Microsoft clarified in a blog post that the WSUS deprecation does not affect its existing features or support through the Microsoft Configuration Manager.
Are current WSUS features affected by the deprecation?
No, existing WSUS functionalities will remain operational. Microsoft will continue to send updates via WSUS and support its integration with Microsoft Configuration Manager. However, WSUS won’t receive any new features or updates.
What are Microsoft’s recommended alternatives to WSUS?
Microsoft recommends transitioning to these cloud-based tools:
- Windows Autopatch: For client device updates.
- Microsoft Intune: For comprehensive endpoint management.
- Azure Update Manager: For server update management.
These tools provide regular updates, modern features, and enhanced scalability compared to Windows Server Update Services.
Key dates for WSUS deprecation:
- Deprecation announcement: December 2023.
- End of support: April 18, 2025.
Organizations should evaluate their IT policies and begin transitioning to ensure seamless update management.
Though WSUS is available on Windows Server 2025, Microsoft recommends organizations to start using cloud tools like Windows Autopatch and Microsoft Intune for client update management, and Azure Update Manager for server update management. It is up to organizations and their IT policies to decide on using the existing WSUS functionality or cloud-based tools. The cloud-based tools will receive regular updates and new functionalities, as they are considered the replacements for Windows Server Update Services.
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