2 min Devops

Windows Server now automatically updates .NET

Windows Server now automatically updates .NET

Microsoft Windows Server can now automatically update .NET Framework and .NET Core via Microsoft Update (MU).

Since the end of last year, administrators have been able to force updates on their systems. The latest Windows Server update allows automatic scheduling.

Opt-in for automated updates

The new feature is completely voluntary. When opting in, .NET Core 3.1, .NET 5.0 and .NET 6.0 are automatically added to the Automatic Updates channel in Microsoft Update. Administrators can opt-in by using registry keys manually or through Group Policy.

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On request

Microsoft introduced the update in response to customer requests. The majority of Windows Server customers use their servers in a managed environment. Software deployments and updates are performed through tools such as Microsoft Intune, Microsoft Endpoint Manager (MEP), System Center Config Manager (SCCM) or Windows Server Update Services (WSUS). They prefer patching their servers in a managed environment, which allows more control over maintenance and reboots.

Windows Autopatch service

Later this year, Microsoft plans to roll out a new Windows Autopatch service. This service should provide fully automated Windows and Office updates for customers with Windows 10/11 Enterprise E3 licences and above.

Tip: The end of .NET 4 Framework is closing in