Microsoft’s plans to discontinue driver distribution via Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) have encountered a significant shift. Originally slated for termination on April 18, the decision has now been postponed following substantial feedback from users.
Initially categorized as “deprecated,” WSUS Driver Synchronization was set to be sidelined, but Microsoft has opted to maintain support for this service. The company announced this change in the Windows IT Pro blog on the Microsoft Techcommunity, citing the “valuable feedback” received from users as a driving factor behind their decision.
(Image: Screenshot / dmk)
“Deprecated” only means “no longer actively developed”
The article further clarifies that while the WSUS Driver Synchronization function is still operational within organizations, its “deprecated” status indicates that it will not receive active development and may eventually be phased out in future releases. However, Microsoft reassures users that services marked as deprecated will continue to be supported, allowing organizations to explore alternative options and strategies for transition.
Microsoft acknowledged the shift in user needs, particularly for those operating in disconnected environments, such as the shipping industry, where systems rely solely on a central WSUS for updates. “In light of the many of you who have already moved to cloud-based driver services, we initially proposed removing WSUS Driver Synchronization. Thanks to your feedback, especially in disconnected device scenarios, we have revised this plan,” the company stated.
Effective immediately, Microsoft has decided to postpone the removal of WSUS Driver Synchronization. The service will continue to synchronize driver updates from the Windows Update Service and will remain capable of importing updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog. Meanwhile, Microsoft is developing a new roadmap aimed at streamlining services for its customers, encouraging them to consider alternative technologies that enhance security and productivity. Notably, solutions like Microsoft Intune and Windows Autopatch for Windows 11 devices are available, with Intune providing comprehensive Windows driver update management.
At the end of January, Microsoft had issued a 90-day reminder regarding the impending end of WSUS driver synchronization, but the recent feedback has prompted a reevaluation of this timeline.