Microsoft has finally released Windows Autopatch since its announcement in April. The development of Windows Autopatch is a response to the evolving nature of technology. Changes like the pandemic-driven demand for increased remote or hybrid work represent particularly noteworthy moments but are nonetheless part of a cycle without a beginning or end.
This service is now generally available for customers with Windows Enterprise E3 and E5 licenses. According to Microsoft, updates will continue to be released on the second Tuesday of every month.
Windows Autopatch is a feature meant to enhance workability for Windows Enterprise E3 and above license holders. IT pros will therefore be in a position to do more at no extra cost. Windows Autopatch works with Windows 10 and 11 Enterprise versions and, when Microsoft reaches general availability, on virtual machines including Windows 365 Cloud PCs.
Once the service reaches general availability, the user will be able to keep using the service as they have been. There may be some cosmetic changes to the interface, but the enrolled devices will stay enrolled, and the user will be able to expand enrollment when you’re ready.
Admins will be able to see what updates have been applied through the Windows Autopatch message center in Endpoint Manager and will learn about what updates to expect. The familiar cadence of monthly Windows security and quality updates, also referred to as “B” releases, will continue and out-of-band updates will be applied as needed.
If your corporate-owned devices are running a currently supported version of Windows 10 or Windows 11, they can be enrolled in Windows Autopatch. Bring-your-own-device (BYOD) scenarios are not currently supported. Your devices must be managed with either Microsoft Intune or via Configuration Manager co-management. Also, User accounts must be managed by Azure Active Directory or Hybrid Azure Active Directory Join.
Steps to activate
- Log in to Endpoint Manager as a Global Administrator and find the Windows Autopatch blade under the Tenant Administration menu. If you don’t see ‘Windows Autopatch’ you don’t have the right licenses.
2. Use an InPrivate or Incognito browser window to redeem your public preview code.
3. The readiness assessment, add your admin contact, and add devices.
With the Windows Autopatch, IT admins now won’t have to plan update rollout and sequencing, and over the long term as increased bandwidth allows them more time to focus on driving value.