Understand the Windows update process for MHC-owned office computers running Windows 11.
Overview
MHC's Windows update configuration is designed to align with the experience that a user might have on their personally-owned computer at home, while enforcing a deadline to install updates that meets our security guidance.
For the best user experience,
don't turn off your computer at the end of the day. Instead, close out all the programs you had open, then let the machine go to sleep:
- Laptops: Simply close the lid. Plug in the computer to power (updates will not occur on battery).
- Desktops: Lock the screen (windows button + L) and turn off the monitor.
What is the Windows update process?
- Computers check for updates several times a day. Updates will be downloaded and staged.
- Up until the deadline (21 days past the publication of the security update) the computer may restart outside of active hours (determined by usage patterns).
- At the deadline, the computer will notify of the pending restart and offer options for managing the restart.
- Options will remain available for a grace period of 7 days to allow for vacation, out of office, and busy weeks.
- After the deadline plus grace period has passed (28 days since the patch was released), the computer will notify for a restart which may occur during active hours.
