Keeping your organization’s software up to date is crucial for security and productivity. If you’re transitioning to cloud-based Windows management, setting up automatic software updates via Microsoft Intune is just as robust as traditional Group Policy — and often far simpler for IT professionals and business owners alike. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to create and deploy automatic software update policies in Intune, ensuring your devices remain secure and compliant.
Why Automatic Software Updates Matter
Outdated software exposes your business to security vulnerabilities, performance issues, and an increased risk of downtime. With Managed IT Services from System Support, combined with effective Windows Endpoint Management, you can automate updates and reduce the stress of manual patching.
Step-by-Step: Create an Automatic Software Update Policy in Intune
Step 1: Sign in to Microsoft Intune
Begin by accessing the Microsoft Endpoint Manager admin center. Use credentials with Intune Administrator permissions to log in.
Step 2: Create a Configuration Profile
- In the left menu, click Devices.
- Choose Windows.
- Select Configuration profiles.
Step 3: Start a New Profile
- Click Create profile.
- Set Platform to Windows 10 and later.
- For Profile type: select Templates, then Device restrictions.
- Click Create.
Step 4: Configure Software Update Settings
- Give your profile a name, such as “Automatic Software Updates.” Add a description for clarity.
- Click Next to access configuration settings.
- Find the Windows Update section, and:
- Configure Automatic Updates: Set to Enabled so updates download and install automatically.
- Choose scheduling: Decide if updates should auto-install and restart at a scheduled time, install and restart without end-user control, or notify users.
- Specify deadlines: Enforce update timelines to ensure timely compliance.
- Allow non-admin notifications: Enable as needed for your environment.
- Enable Windows Update for Business: For greater control over update deployment and quality.
Step 5: Assign the Configuration Profile
- In Assignments, select device or user groups to receive this policy.
- Click Next.
Step 6: Review and Create
- Carefully review your settings.
- When ready, click Create.
Step 7: Monitor Compliance
- From Devices > Windows > Configuration profiles, select your update policy profile.
- Check Device status to see compliance across your device fleet.
Additional Tips & Best Practices
- Device Requirements: Automatic updates via Intune are supported on Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions.
- Communicate with Users: Inform employees about update schedules and possible reboots to minimize disruptions.
- Test First: Before a wide rollout, pilot your policy with a small device group to confirm settings work as intended.
- Explore Deeper Settings: For advanced configurations, use Administrative Templates for further Windows Update control.
If your business needs a seamless, outsourced solution, our Unlimited Helpdesk Support and Cyber Security services can further enhance your security posture and user experience.
Summary: Intune as the New Group Policy for Software Updates
Switching to Intune for Windows update management streamlines the process and gives you flexibility from anywhere. With these steps, you can confidently create a policy that keeps your organization’s software up to date, minimizes vulnerability, and reduces manual IT workloads. For a smoother journey with updates, System Support’s team is happy to advise or handle administration for you.
Need help customizing your update policies or managing your Windows environment across Canada?
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