Usually, Microsoft delivers .NET Framework updates every month through Windows Update, but that is about to change. The firm noted yesterday in a blog post that starting with the Windows 10 October 2018 Update, .NET Framework updates will be delivered alongside Windows 10 Cumulative Updates instead.
According to Microsoft, this change is designed to give users more flexibility in installing .NET Framework updates. Microsoft also hopes this help them respond to the critical needs of customers, and give IT Admins a more selective test line. There will be three characteristics of Cumulative Updates for .NET Framework.
- Independent – Released separately from the Windows Cumulative Update
- Cumulative – The latest patch will fully update all .NET Framework versions on your system
- Same cadence – The Cumulative Update for .NET Framework will be released on the same cadence as Windows 10.
Users should keep in mind that updates for Windows and the .NET Framework will be silently installed. Microsoft, though, will be delivering .NET Framework updates on the following schedule and servicing cadence across Windows versions.
- Windows 10 October 2018 Update (version 1809) – One Cumulative Update for .NET Framework, alongside the Windows Cumulative Update.
- Windows 10 April 2018 (version 1803) and earlier versions of Windows 10 – One Windows Cumulative Update (which includes .NET Framework updates), per Windows version.
- Windows 7 and 8.1 – Multiple .NET Framework updates, per Windows version.
Microsoft also ensures users that they check for the quality and security of any .NET updates before pushing them out, so there won’t be a need for worry. You can learn more about these changes by checking here.
