Patch management is critical for maintaining security, ensuring compliance, and streamlining performance across devices. Windows Autopatch provides a streamlined solution to keep devices updated, but how does it work? How does it differ from other solutions like Windows Update for Business?

In the content below we’ll explore how Autopatch fits into a broader patch management strategy, including Intune integration and automation across diverse platforms.

What Is Windows Autopatch?

Windows Autopatch is a cloud service designed to automate the deployment of updates across Windows devices. It ensures that your business’s devices stay up to date with the latest security patches, quality updates, and even feature upgrades without requiring manual intervention.

The goal is to simplify IT operations while maintaining a secure, productive environment. Microsoft manages the patching process for you, leveraging their expertise to minimize disruption and increase security.

Autopatch vs. Windows Update for Business

While both Autopatch and Windows Update for Business simplify update management, however, there are distinct differences.

Windows Autopatch is a fully managed cloud service where Microsoft takes care of the entire patching process. Updates are deployed in a structured manner, starting with a small group of devices (test group) before rolling out to the broader fleet. Microsoft performs compatibility testing and monitors deployment progress to ensure minimal disruption.

On the other hand, Windows Update for Business offers IT admins more control. Admins can define their own update rings, decide deployment schedules, and manage compatibility testing internally. While this flexibility is valuable for custom setups, it also places more responsibility on the IT team.

Autopatch is best suited for businesses looking for a hands-off, automated solution, whereas Windows Update for Business is ideal for those who need tailored configurations.

How to Use Windows Autopatch in Conjunction with Intune

Windows Autopatch and Intune work hand-in-hand to streamline update management. Here’s how they integrate:

  • 1

    Device Enrollment in Intune:
    Devices must first be enrolled in Intune, Microsoft’s endpoint management solution, to use Autopatch.

  • 2

    Licensing Requirements:
    Your business needs Windows Enterprise E3 or higher to enable Autopatch functionality.

  • 3

    Autopatch Setup:
    The Autopatch setup process is accessible through the Intune admin center. IT admins can assign devices or groups to Autopatch policies, which automatically manage updates.

  • 4

    Monitoring and Reporting:
    Intune provides dashboards to monitor update compliance, device health, and deployment progress, giving IT visibility while Microsoft handles the updates.

Automating Patch Management Across Platforms

While Windows Autopatch simplifies updates for Windows devices, modern businesses often need a broader strategy to manage patches for macOS, Linux, and third-party applications. Here’s how to achieve cross-platform patch automation:

  • 1

    Use a Unified Patch Management Solution:
    Tools like Microsoft Intune, Automox, or ManageEngine enable central patching for diverse environments, streamlining workflows.

  • 2

    Define Cross-Platform Policies:
    Establish consistent update schedules and compliance baselines for Windows, macOS, Linux, and third-party applications.

  • 3

    Automate Third-Party Updates:
    Solutions like Patch My PC or SCCM simplify updates for commonly used apps, such as browsers, conferencing tools, and productivity software.

  • 4

    Monitor Compliance:
    Use dashboards to track which devices and apps are up to date, identify gaps, and remediate non-compliant endpoints.

  • 5

    Plan for Exceptions:
    Develop strategies for handling mission-critical systems that require more controlled update rollouts to avoid business disruptions.

Conclusion

Windows Autopatch represents a significant step toward automated, hassle-free patch management for Windows environments. When integrated with Intune, it provides businesses with a powerful framework for managing updates across their device fleets.

For companies with multi-platform environments, incorporating additional tools to automate updates for macOS, Linux, and third-party apps ensures comprehensive security and compliance. By embracing automation, IT teams can achieve secure, up-to-date devices while redirecting their focus toward innovation and growth.

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Andrew Reade

ANDREW READE

Andrew is our Digital Marketing Manager and oversees web-based marketing strategies and content creation for the organization. As a marketing veteran, Andrew has worked with organizations of all sizes in a diverse group of industries, from Risk Management to Transportation. Joining the organization in 2021, Andrew is based in Mobile Mentor’s Nashville, TN office.