Managing Windows 10 Servicing

Beginning in Sept. 2017, many Windows 10 computers will get semiannual version releases, each with a support period of only 18 months. Each organization running Windows 10 has the burden of testing these versions with its internal applications prior to deployment, and deployment tools from Microsoft provide only limited assistance. Additional changes are likely as this servicing model is aspirational and not part of a licensing or service level agreement.

(For a preview of upcoming Windows 10 versions, see the illustration “Windows Client Roadmap“.)

Use Channels to Manage Deployment

New Windows 10 versions are released through a series of channels. Similar to the previous Branch concept, each channel addresses a different usage scenario, delivers new code at its own cadence, and has its own support policies. Most business computers used in production will receive versions through the Semi-annual Channel, which delivers versions twice a year and offers an 18-month support period for each version. (For a description of the Windows 10 release channels, see the sidebar “Windows 10 Channels“.)