Windows Updates Explained: Branches and How You Get Them

Table of Contents

Let’s break down how Windows updates work, what the different “branches” are, and how you get them. It can seem confusing, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it.

image just illustration

Understanding Windows Update Branches¶

Microsoft delivers Windows updates in a few different ways, catering to different user groups. Think of these groups as “branches,” like branches of a tree.

• Current Branch (CB): This is the “fast lane” for updates. Home users and some Pro/Enterprise users fall into this branch. You get updates as soon as they’re released, meaning you always have the newest features and security patches. Think “early adopter.”

• Current Branch for Business (CBB): Designed for businesses (excluding Home edition), this branch lets network admins pump the brakes a bit. They get the updates, but can wait and test them for about four months before rolling them out company-wide. This helps avoid unexpected issues on their network. Think “test before you deploy.”

• Long Term Servicing Branch (LTSB): This branch is all about stability. It’s intended for specialized systems, like those controlling critical infrastructure, where updates need to be carefully managed. LTSB releases are supported for a whopping 10 years, but they don’t get feature updates as often. Think “long-term stability.”

How Updates Roll Out¶

Microsoft’s internal team tests updates first, then sends them to Windows Insiders (a million-strong testing community). Insiders get to try out the latest and greatest and provide feedback. Based on that feedback, Microsoft tweaks things before releasing the update to the general public (the CB branch). The CBB and LTSB branches also get the updates at this point but, remember, they can defer installing them.

Deferring Updates: The Power of “Pause”¶

The beauty of the CBB and LTSB branches is the ability to defer updates. This allows businesses and organizations to test updates thoroughly before deploying them across their entire network. It minimizes disruption and allows IT admins to address potential compatibility issues proactively. This isn’t a permanent opt-out, it’s about controlling when updates are implemented.

Update Types: Features vs. Security¶

There are two main types of Windows updates:

• Security Updates: These are crucial patches that address vulnerabilities and keep your system safe from threats. They are released as needed, often on “Patch Tuesdays.”

• Feature Updates: These are bigger updates that introduce new features, improve performance, and generally make Windows better. Microsoft aims for a maximum of three feature updates per year. They’re like mini-operating system upgrades.

Updating in the Enterprise¶

For individual users, Windows Update does its thing automatically. But for businesses, managing updates for a whole network is more complex. That’s where the Windows Server Update Service (WSUS) comes in. WSUS lets IT admins choose which updates to deploy and when to deploy them. They can test updates on a few machines first, then roll them out to the rest of the network with confidence.

Summing It Up: Windows Update Branches at a Glance¶

Here’s a quick rundown of the key differences between the update branches:

Branch	User Type(s)	Servicing Lifetime (Minimum)	Feature Updates	Security Updates
Current Branch (CB)	Home, some Pro/Enterprise	4 months	Frequent	Frequent
Current Branch for Business (CBB)	Pro/Enterprise	8 months	Frequent	Frequent
Long Term Servicing Branch (LTSB)	Specialized Systems	10 years	Less Frequent	Frequent

Delaying and Deferring: Taking Control of Your Updates¶

Remember, even on the CB branch, you have some control. You can pause updates for up to 365 days directly within Windows Settings. This gives you breathing room if you need it.

image just illustration

Your Turn!¶

Understanding how Windows updates work empowers you to manage your system effectively. Whether you’re a home user, a business professional, or an IT admin, knowing the different branches and update types helps you make informed decisions about how and when to keep your Windows systems up to date. What are your thoughts on the different update branches? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you. Come back and visit us again for more information on all things Windows!