Need to provide feedback to a poorly implemented update process

Kelly Daniels 65 Reputation points
2025-10-29T14:59:07.56+00:00

I have update installs set for outside my business hours but the past 18 months, I get degraded activity during Microsoft Push of SSU/LCU updates. I notice while I have my settings proper, the implementation by Microsoft is mis-leading. It is true the install does not take place with a restart until prompt (several autonomous alerts) is accepted or I leave my machine on for the hours listed in my settings shown below.

After some observation, I notice the download and install configurations are taking place in preparation of the restart. Thus I am severely impeded during business day. Since the 2H cumulative updates are failing the past two years, I am out 10-24 hours as the roll-back and then OEM tools kick-in the repairs.

I suggest the better implementation is to not start the download, the configurations pending changes until the hours provided in the settings. Note, a classification of what types of pushed update processing would also be helpful. For instance, I want security, virus and malware libraries pushed & activated in backgrounds since most do not require a restart. To say the least, my clients hate to hear every two weeks that I am taking the day off due to a Microsoft Push of Updates.

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Windows for business | Windows Client for IT Pros | Devices and deployment | Other
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  1. JasonTranNguyen-3858 1,240 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-10-30T00:57:29.83+00:00

    Hi Kelly Daniels,

    Windows may begin downloading and staging updates (SSU/LCU) during active hours, even though the restart itself is deferred based on your “Active Hours” settings. This design ensures critical updates are ready to apply quickly once a restart window becomes available, but I agree it can impact system performance in certain environments.

    To help reduce interruptions, you can adjust update behavior through Group Policy or Windows Update for Business by pausing or scheduling update downloads outside active hours. In managed setups, using tools like Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) or Intune can give you greater control over when updates are downloaded, installed, and restarted.

    Your suggestion to classify updates by restart requirement is excellent, and I will be sure to share this feedback with the engineering team for future service improvements.

    I hope this clarifies why you’re seeing that behavior and helps improve your update experience going forward. If this answer helps, please click “Accept Answer” so others can benefit too 😊

    Jason,

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