Microsoft is introducing “checkpoint cumulative updates” to deliver Windows updates in a smaller, faster, and more sustainable way. Instead of a single update file that grows larger monthly, Microsoft will release periodic cumulative updates as checkpoints, followed by smaller update package files containing incremental binary differentials. This new format will be available with Windows 11, version 24H2, and is expected to reduce the size of monthly updates by 80% or more. The new update packages are currently only available to beta testers, and the change is not expected to affect Windows 10 users.
Microsoft resolved a bug caused by a recent update that impacted Windows Update automation scripts on Windows 11 systems in enterprise environments. The issue has been resolved through Known Issue Rollback (KIR), and a future update will include the fix. Admins can expedite the process by restarting affected devices or installing and setting up the KIR Group Policy. Microsoft’s support website provides detailed information on deploying and configuring the KIR Group Policies.
Why do we care?
Another shift in how Windows updates are done. Certainly, bandwidth savings, making them less energy dependent as well. There is new setup and new policies — Organizations will need to update their Windows Update policies and possibly their scripts to align with the new update format, ensuring they take full advantage of the efficiencies offered. This aligns with the overall trend to more agile deployments. Heads up on the change.