Deferrals for Windows 10 Pro
Deferrals for Windows 10 Pro
It's a bit unclear, but you seem to be asking about the release timeline of updates for Windows 10. Specifically, you're curious if after 365 days you'll get the latest version or the next one in line, like the 1803 Redstone 4 April 2018 Update.
Well, the initial concern is worth noting. It's tough to justify delaying security patches unless you manage them in a large organization. Even then, a month's lag would likely pose greater danger than rushing the updates. Temporarily breaking an app is preferable to allowing ransomware access. Regarding the specifics, I’m pretty sure you’ll receive the next scheduled feature update rather than the newest one. The 365-day window should act as a continuous delay relative to releases. That implies you’re consistently 365 days behind the latest schedule. While that’s significant, it might be manageable for those with slower internet connections who can’t afford frequent updates. A period of 3 to 6 months would seem sufficient for a more cautious approach.
Based on the policy, you can postpone the "feature update" and choose what version to adopt from the dropdown. The options listed are either "current branch" or "current branch for business." I believe it will switch to the version you pick. If you select CBB, after 365 days it will move to the next CBB, not the newest release. It seems the next CB becomes CBB and the oldest semi-annual updates to CB. I hope any issues are resolved by then. Feature updates differ from security patches—security fixes must be applied right away, while feature updates are only useful if you specifically want them. I usually stick with 1703 (current branch) and defer the next feature update for now.
The 365 days might actually be shorter than expected. Although Windows 10 has been available for some time (it was free for the first year), before I started using it on my machines recently, I noticed people with issues didn’t have the same problems as with Windows 7. That doesn’t guarantee it won’t happen, I’ll monitor the situation and see how it progresses.
The update you postponed will be applied later at the same interval. To completely disable Windows Update, use Group Policy settings to stop automatic updates. Some external tools can also halt or prevent updates in Windows 10, such as Spybot Anti-Beacon. I’ve noticed systems can run without updates for years without issues. Forcing updates in Windows 10 often increases data collection and resets your settings to Microsoft defaults, which may compromise privacy. Since Microsoft’s quality assurance has declined since 2015, installing updates can pose a greater risk than encountering malware. The safest approach is to turn off Windows Update and then run additional security scans like MalwareBytes, Spybot, or other antivirus software.
I was thinking about that, but I understand you need a newer update to stay supported. That wasn't meant as a final solution. Thanks everyone!