Microsoft has announced that it will deprecate the drive synchronization capability in WSUS come April 18, 2025. WSUS driver synchronization helps IT admins automate the process of distributing driver updates within their network. It ensures the mass deployment of driver updates as soon as they are available to enhance the stability and hardware compatibility of PCs.
However, now that the WSUS driver synchronization is being deprecated, IT admins will have to manually download drivers from the Microsoft Update Catalog or switch to third-party update management solutions. Alternatively, they can also use tools like Microsoft Intune to manage driver updates.
Why is Microsoft Deprecating WSUS Driver Synchronization?
In a survey conducted by Microsoft, it found that only 34% of the participants who use WSUS use the tool to synchronize drivers. Of this 34% of respondents, a majority of people are in the process of switching to a different solution for managing the distribution of driver updates, with only eight percent raising concerns that the depreciation will impact them. Although Microsoft doesn’t explicitly mention the reason behind this move, the numbers suggest the company no longer finds the WSUS driver synchronization feature worthy of being maintained in the future. If you’re an IT admin and think that the depreciation will impact you, Microsoft encourages you to transition to an alternative solution.
The deprecation of WSUS driver synchronization marks a significant shift in how IT departments will handle driver updates moving forward. With the reliance on manual downloads or third-party tools, there may be an initial adjustment period for many organizations. However, this change also opens up opportunities for IT admins to explore more modern and efficient solutions for driver updates.
As organizations prepare for this transition, it will be crucial to evaluate the available options and choose a solution that best fits their needs. Whether it’s leveraging Microsoft Intune or exploring other third-party update management tools, the goal remains the same: ensuring that all devices within a network receive timely and reliable driver updates.
In conclusion, while the deprecation of WSUS driver synchronization may seem like a daunting change, it also presents an opportunity for IT departments to modernize their approach to driver updates. By staying informed and proactive, organizations can navigate this transition smoothly and continue to maintain the stability and compatibility of their hardware systems.
