Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Reviews

Name: Microsoft Windows Server Update Services
Brand: Microsoft
Rating: 4.0 (47 reviews)

Vendor: Microsoft

4.0 out of 5

47 reviews
89% willing to recommend

170 followers

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What is Microsoft Windows Server Update Services?

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) is a patch management tool that simplifies the administrator’s task of deploying the latest Microsoft updates. Administrators use WSUS to manage the distribution of updates released through Microsoft Update to computers in their network.

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Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is the #3 ranked solution in top Patch Management solutions. PeerSpot users give Microsoft Windows Server Update Services an average rating of 8.0 out of 10. Based on the analysis of the 47 most recent Microsoft Windows Server Update Services reviews, the overall sentiment is positive, with a sentiment score of 7.5. Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is most commonly compared to Microsoft Configuration Manager: Microsoft Windows Server Update Services vs Microsoft Configuration Manager. Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 61% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 15% of all views.

Buyer's Guide

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services

November 2024

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Featured reviews

AANKITGUPTAA

Consultant at Pi DATACENTERS

Patch and security management is a very crucial activity. It is actually periodical and it should be done on a monthly basis or a weekly basis, depending on the requirement. Maintaining the patching to the latest version is a very crucial and difficult task. It's helped us to maintain patch management cycles.

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Mashood Atitebi

Global Core Infrastructure Engineer at Finning International Inc

In the current era of heightened cybersecurity concerns, ensuring that your systems are consistently updated and well-protected is imperative. This solution becomes particularly crucial for services accessible to the public, especially those exposed to the internet—a condition that is increasingly prevalent for most entities today. It stands as one of the essential measures for safeguarding against potential cyberattacks.

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Alexandru Cioruta

Global Cybersecurity Presales Domain Lead Architect at Eviden France

I would recommend the solution to other users. If someone wants a less costly solution and doesn't want to invest too much in licenses, they can choose Microsoft Windows Server Update Services. The solution is more suited for small businesses, not huge enterprise customers. Overall, I rate Microsoft Windows Server Update Services a nine out of ten.

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Microsoft Windows Server Update Services mindshare

As of November 2024, the mindshare of Microsoft Windows Server Update Services in the Patch Management category stands at 10.0%, down from 14.5% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Patch Management

Key learnings from peers

Last updated Nov 21, 2024

Valuable Features

Valuable features of Microsoft Windows Server Update Services include integration with AD management, centralized updates deployment through Group Policy, reduced internet usage by leveraging internal traffic, scalability, and stability. Users appreciate the ease of use, ability to filter security updates, and track endpoint visibility. Offering options for specific OS updates and integration with various services, it ensures efficient server updates, patch compliance, and enhanced security management without additional licensing fees.

"The most valuable feature of Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is its low cost, as it requires no additional licensing fees."
"The product reduced the number of crashes on our applications that were not able to use the latest versions of Windows updates."
"We use the security patch-level services provided by Microsoft. This is essential for keeping our network secure."

Room for Improvement

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services requires enhancements in its user interface and functionality. Users express difficulties with its GUI, deployment process, and lack of third-party integration. Reporting features and patch management need refinement. Connectivity issues, especially with non-Windows systems, pose challenges. Interaction with PowerShell instead of a more GUI-based approach limits usability. Users also highlight the need for better update accuracy, more efficient administrative capabilities, and improved communication and stability in update procedures.

"There are several areas needing improvement, including the management of third-party patches."
"I don't have any notes on improvements."
"Microsoft should address the issue where some updates cause the blue screen (BlueDump) error in the server OS, which is not supported in the hardware."

ROI

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services allows for centralized update management, reducing internet bandwidth use by downloading updates once. It automates updates for Windows operating systems and Microsoft software like SQL Server, Exchange, and Office. Users experience fewer application crashes and reduced restoration times due to the latest updates. Cost efficiency is enhanced as it does not require additional investment, remaining free of operational impacts and costs associated with patch management.

Pricing

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services incurs no setup or licensing fees, as it is included with the Windows Server operating system. While WSUS is part of the Windows package, larger enterprises manage costs through various license agreements like volume or rental contracts. Users find the pricing satisfactory though potentially expensive for smaller companies. The solution offers good value, but careful budget assessment is required to encompass additional costs such as data transfer when deployed on the cloud.

"Configuration Manager is less expensive than Microsoft Windows Server Update Services."
"We need one single key for Windows deployments, which is a better option. Buying a license with the same key for all systems, like Windows and Windows Desktop, makes configuring easier. Otherwise, it isn't easy to manage multiple keys for different systems."
"The tool could be cheaper."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations use Microsoft Windows Server Update Services primarily for deploying updates, managing patches, and ensuring server and desktop systems remain current. They widely implement it for internal updates, patch management, and minimizing external data flow. The service supports server estate maintenance, distributed update management, and enhanced security protection, catering to diverse infrastructure requirements. Many find it valuable for efficiently distributing Microsoft updates and maintaining compliance across various environments.

Service and Support

Customer service and support for Microsoft Windows Server Update Services have mixed feedback. Many users find them satisfactory, often due to comprehensive online resources. Some praise their responsiveness and ability to resolve issues within 24-48 hours. However, others note long wait times, insufficient frontline support, and a need for more knowledgeable representatives. While some receive excellent assistance, others encounter delays or have to rely on third-level support for complex issues. Premium support is appreciated when needed.

Deployment

The initial setup of Microsoft Windows Server Update Services varies in complexity. Many users find it straightforward and quick, often taking only a few hours, while others experience challenges, especially in larger or more complex deployments. Having prior knowledge or external guidance can simplify the process. Additionally, some users note that configuration and maintenance require further attention to ensure seamless operation. Documentation and expertise significantly impact ease and time required for setup.

Scalability

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is recognized for scalability, capable of expanding across various organizational levels. It supports numerous users and large deployments, integrating with both on-premises and cloud environments. Some organizations note that scalability can present challenges, particularly in extensive setups, but generally, it is seen as dependable in adapting to different needs. Its capacity to add servers and endpoints is often praised, with many rating its scalability highly.

Stability

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is highly stable according to users, many rate its stability between eight to ten out of ten. It operates reliably without crashing or freezing. While most find it dependable, some users report minor issues like intermittent bugs or problematic patches. The service performs best in smaller environments with fewer than 200 devices, and it is particularly robust when used with Microsoft products.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

Download our Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

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Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Computer Software Company

15%

Government

11%

Manufacturing Company

10%

Financial Services Firm

Energy/Utilities Company

Educational Organization

Insurance Company

Retailer

Healthcare Company

Construction Company

University

Real Estate/Law Firm

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Media Company

Legal Firm

Wholesaler/Distributor

Comms Service Provider

Non Profit

Outsourcing Company

Hospitality Company

Logistics Company

Performing Arts

Wellness & Fitness Company

Consumer Goods Company

Maritime Company

Aerospace/Defense Firm

Transportation Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Engineering Company

Compare Microsoft Windows Server Update Services with alternative products

Learn more about Microsoft Windows Server Update Services

WSUS has features you can use to manage and distribute updates from a management console. The WSUS server can also be a source of updates to other servers within the organization, acting as an upstream server.

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Use Cases

The four main use cases that WSUS adds value to businesses are:

Centralizes update management.
Automates update management.
Performs general patch management to ensure compliance and protect against vulnerabilities.
Downloads all endpoint updates from data centers to a central location and then distribute them across the organization’s network.

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Features

This built-in server includes the following features:

Includes Windows PowerShell cmdlets.
Features client and server separation, which means you can deliver versions of the Windows Update Agent (WUA) separately from WSUS.
Automatic download of updates.
Deploy a targeted download of updates to a specific group of computers.
Multiple language support.
Advanced reporting capabilities.
Centralized management of network resources.

Requirements

In order to be able to use WSUS to manage and deploy updates, it is important to use a supported WSUS version, such as:

WSUS 10.0.14393
WSUS 10.0.17763
WSUS 6.2 and 6.3 with installed KB 3095113 and KB 3159706

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Benefits

Stable.
Ensures servers are always patched and prevents vulnerabilities.
Works great for internal updating.
Enforces automated updates and patching for applications.
Because the solution is used in the cloud, clients are always using the latest version.
Highly scalable and configurable regardless of the organization’s layout.

Different Types of WSUS Deployments

Simple WSUS deployment: A server inside the corporate firewall serves clients via a private intranet. The WSUS server downloads updates by connecting to Microsoft Update. Using this model, you can configure multiple WSUS servers with a parent WSUS server.
Computer groups: You can use computer groups to deliver updates to specific computers. There are two basic computer groups: All Computers or Unassigned Computers. When a client first contacts the WSUS server, it is added to both. You can then create a group from the Unassigned Computers group to the new group.
WSUS server hierarchies: The flexibility of WSUS enables the creation of complex hierarchies of servers. To do this, you need only a single WSUS server connected to Microsoft Update. This will serve as an “upstream server,” and the connected servers as “downstream servers.”
- You can link WSUS servers in two modes: autonomous or replica. In the autonomous mode, the upstream server shares the updates with the downstream servers but doesn’t update status or group information.
- The upstream server shares updates, status, and group information in replica mode. You cannot administer replica servers apart from the upstream WSUS server.

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services was previously known as Windows Server Update Services, Microsoft WSUS, WSUS, Microsoft Software Update Services, Software Update Services, Microsoft SUS, SUS, MS Windows Server Update Services.