Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) is a tool that has been essential to many Microsoft administrators for years. However, Microsoft’s recent announcement of the deprecation of WSUS has left many admins wondering about suitable alternatives to fill the gap. With a variety of patching tools and technologies available, such as Windows Autopatch, Intune, Azure Update Manager, Windows Update for Business (WUfB), Azure Arc and Microsoft Configuration Manager, it can be overwhelming to understand which option is the best replacement for WSUS.
WSUS was introduced by Microsoft in 2005, replacing Software Update Services to address the challenges businesses faced with downloading updates over a limited internet connection for multiple clients and servers. Apart from optimizing bandwidth, WSUS also offers client reporting capabilities and is relatively easy to set up with minimal licensing costs. As a result, WSUS became a standard tool for keeping Windows environments up to date and was widely used within environments that utilized Microsoft Configuration Manager.
The news of WSUS deprecation took many by surprise, especially given its integral role in on-premises environments. However, Microsoft clarified that while WSUS is no longer actively developed, existing capabilities and content will continue to be available for deployment. Additionally, Microsoft stated its focus on cloud-based Windows management but assured continued support for distributing content via WSUS, as it falls under the Fixed Lifecycle Policy with extended support periods.
For those concerned about the impending deprecation of WSUS, Microsoft recommends alternatives, each with unique features and benefits. Windows Autopatch, a cloud service utilizing WUfB for Windows clients, offers automated updates managed via Intune and comprehensive reporting capabilities. Azure Update Manager, another cloud service, supports managing software updates for servers and endpoints across Azure, on-premises, and Azure Arc-enabled servers in other clouds. Both options offer distinct advantages, such as hot patching support and clear oversight of update status across server fleets.
While WSUS will remain available for an extended period, organizations should consider exploring alternative patching solutions to align with Microsoft’s cloud-based management focus. Researching and testing different options, including third-party patching products, can help organizations make informed decisions based on their specific needs and environments. Integrating cloud-based alternatives like Windows Autopatch and Azure Update Manager can enhance patching capabilities and provide a holistic view of update status across different platforms.
In conclusion, while WSUS will continue to serve on-premises environments effectively, understanding and leveraging cloud-based alternatives will be crucial for staying ahead of evolving patching requirements. By familiarizing themselves with available options, organizations can transition smoothly from WSUS to more advanced patching tools and technologies to ensure seamless update management across their networks.