The Different Types of Updates in Windows 10
| Types of updates | Schedule | What they do | Other notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feature updates | Twice per year | Add new features and functionality to OS | |
| Quality updates | Second Tuesday of each month | Security and non-security fixes to OS | - Cumulative updates, final release. - Classed as "B" updates - Includes; critical updates, servicing stacks, driver updates. |
| Optional Quality updates | Once a month, near end | Stability and other problem fixes. | - Known as "Cumulative Preview Updates" - Preview releases are classed as "C" or "D" updates - Can be skipped for "B" updates (see row above) |
| Servicing stack updates | Out of band | Component that installs Windows updates | - Allows latest updates - Component-based servicing stack (CBS) is the underlying component for several elements of Windows deployment including DISM, SFC, repairs |
| Driver updates | Off by default | Updates drivers to your devices | - Control whether they are installed or not |
| Microsoft product updates | Updates other Microsoft products such as Office | - Can be enabled or disabled | |
| Feature Experience Pack updates | Optional | Improve features and experiences developed independently to OS | - Delivered via Optional updates |
Data sources (1) and (2). Added (3) for Optional quality updates.
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