Windows updates have long been a source of both anticipation and frustration for users. As each month passes, the size of these updates tends to grow, thanks to the addition of new features and patches. This often results in larger update files that can be cumbersome to download and install. However, Microsoft has introduced a solution to this problem: cumulative checkpoint updates.
Streamlining Updates with Cumulative Checkpoints
With the introduction of cumulative checkpoint updates, users will no longer need to download the entire update package each month. Instead, they will only download what’s necessary. For instance, if you downloaded the checkpoint cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2, which was notably large, subsequent monthly updates will be much smaller. These smaller updates will contain only incremental differentials from the previous checkpoint, significantly reducing the file size.
Microsoft has indicated that it might “periodically release cumulative updates as checkpoints.” This approach not only simplifies the download and installation process for users but also alleviates the burden on Microsoft in managing large update files.
Implementation Timeline
The concept of checkpoint cumulative updates will be implemented with Windows 11 24H2, which is still a few months away. Additionally, Windows Server 2025 will adopt this update mechanism. On the other hand, Windows 10 users will continue to receive cumulative updates as they have been doing so far. This is because Windows 10 consumer editions are set to retire next year, and therefore, they are not included in this new update strategy.
For users, there’s no need to change anything in their update routine. Whether you use Windows Update for Business, Windows Autopatch, or Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), the process remains the same. However, if you prefer downloading updates from the official Microsoft Update Catalog website, you will notice more than one update package file available. Microsoft explains that “There will be one file for each checkpoint, plus an additional file that contains cumulative payload from the latest checkpoint.”
Addressing Persistent Bugs
While the new update mechanism promises to streamline the process, it doesn’t entirely eliminate the issue of bugs. The July 2024 security update resolved the infamous profile picture error but introduced a couple of new bugs affecting Enterprise users. Despite these hiccups, the overall improvement in the update process is a step forward in enhancing user experience.
As we look forward to these changes, it’s clear that Microsoft is committed to refining its update strategy. By introducing cumulative checkpoint updates, the company aims to make the update process more efficient and less burdensome for both users and itself.
