Windows 7 / Getting Started

Methods for Deploying Updates

To meet the needs of various types of organizations, Microsoft provides several different methods for applying updates. For home users and small businesses, Windows 7 is configured to automatically retrieve updates directly from Microsoft. The preferred method for deploying updates in medium and many large organizations is WSUS, which provides better control and performance. Finally, enterprises that use Configuration Manager 2007 R2 can use that tool to deploy and manage updates.

Table below lists the advantages and disadvantages of each of the update distribution methods and the network size for which the method is effective. The sections that follow describe each of these methods in more detail.

Comparison of Automated Update Distribution Methods

Update Distribution MethodNetwork SizeAdvantagesDisadvantages
Windows Update client connecting directly to Microsoft50 or fewer computersDoes not require that any infrastructure be deployed.Does not allow administrators to centrally test or approve updates or manage installation errors. Wastes Internet bandwidth by downloading updates directly to each computer.
Windows Server Update ServicesAny number of computersAllows administrators to test, approve, and schedule updates. Reduces Internet bandwidth usage.Requires an infrastructure server.
System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2Any number of computersProvides highly customizable, centralized control over update deployment, with the ability to audit and inventory client systems. Can be used to distribute other types of software. Supports Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 and Windows 98.Requires infrastructure servers and additional software licenses
[Contents] [Next]

In this tutorial:

  1. Managing Software Updates
  2. Methods for Deploying Updates
  3. Windows Update Client
  4. Windows Server Update Services
  5. System Center Configuration Manager 2007 R2
  6. Manually Installing, Scripting, and Removing Updates
  7. Overview of Windows 7 Update Files
  8. How to Script Update Installations
  9. How to Remove Updates
  10. Deploying Updates to New Computers
  11. Other Reasons to Use a Private Network for New Computers
  12. Managing BITS
  13. BITS Behavior
  14. BITS Group Policy Settings
  15. Configuring the Maximum Bandwidth Served For Peer Client Requests Policy
  16. Managing BITS with Windows PowerShell
  17. Windows Update Group Policy Settings
  18. Configuring Windows Update to Use a Proxy Server
  19. Tools for Auditing Software Updates
  20. The MBSA Console
  21. MBSACLI
  22. Scheduling MBSA
  23. Troubleshooting the Windows Update Client
  24. The Process of Updating Network Software
  25. Assembling the Update Team
  26. Inventorying Software
  27. Creating an Update Process
  28. Discovering Updates
  29. Evaluating Updates
  30. Speeding the Update Process
  31. Retrieving Updates
  32. Testing Updates
  33. Installing Updates
  34. Removing Updates
  35. Auditing Updates
  36. How Microsoft Distributes Updates
  37. Security Updates
  38. Update Rollups
  39. Service Packs
  40. Microsoft Product Life Cycles