Microsoft has announced an important change regarding Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), set to take effect on April 18, 2025. Originally introduced in 2005, WSUS has been a key tool for enterprises to manage software updates and driver downloads. However, Microsoft will soon discontinue driver synchronization functionality within WSUS, marking a major shift for its users.
While WSUS will continue to operate, it will no longer receive development updates as the company pivots towards cloud-based Windows management solutions. Consequently, users in traditional on-premises environments, like small businesses and SOHO setups, will need to download drivers directly from the Microsoft Update Catalog, as WSUS will not allow for direct import of these downloads.
As Microsoft encourages users to transition to cloud solutions such as Microsoft Intune and Windows Autopatch, administrators will have to find alternative ways to keep their drivers updated outside of the WSUS system. The possibility of integrating custom driver packages into Windows images prior to deployment remains a viable option for resourceful system administrators.
This deprecation notice comes as WSUS usage has already diminished, with only 34% of its users reportedly still utilizing driver synchronization. Among them, most have already adopted alternative methods, with only a small percentage expressing concern over the impending changes.
Microsoft defines "deprecation" as the phase during which a feature is no longer actively developed. While deprecated features may still function, their removal from future releases is highly possible. The decision reflects a broader trend towards the elimination of long-established features across Microsoft’s products and services, suggesting that users must adapt to ongoing changes in the ecosystem.
For more information on this transition, users can refer to the official Microsoft Update Catalog and relevant documentation regarding cloud solutions such as Microsoft Intune and Windows Autopatch.