Inwindow 10Microsoft has introduced a service model called "Windows as a Service" (WaaS), which means that instead of getting a new version every three years, you now receive incremental updates to speed up the integration of new features and make the maintenance process safe and compatible devices.
As a result of this new service model, we now have two main types of updates for Windows 10 (and Windows 11): "Feature Updates" and "Quality Updates". Both are equally important, but offer different improvements at different times.
This guide will highlight the difference between feature and quality updates to better understand the updates you install on your computer.
What are feature updates for Windows?
For Windows 10 and Windows 11, feature updates are technically new versions of the operating system that are available once a year in the fall and are supported for 18 months. After the end of the support cycle, you must upgrade to one of the available supported versions to continue receiving security and other patches.
As part of the development process, Microsoft uses telemetry and feedback from internal testing and Windows Insider Program participants to prepare the new release. If the update passes the testing phases and proves to be reliable, the rollout begins via Windows Update as an optional update that users must install manually. However, devices with an installation approaching the end of service (possibly) will automatically receive the feature update to maintain security and system support.
These updates typically include new features, visual improvements, and significant improvements to improve the overall experience and security. However, unlike the previous servicing model (such as in Windows Vista and Windows 7), feature updates contain a smaller list of changes that help reduce compatibility issues and minimize the user's learning curve.
Also, feature updates are more important than quality updates. The download size can be almost 3 GB for 64-bit version or 2 GB for 32-bit version when using Windows Update. Or around 4.9 GB for 64-bit version or 3.5 GB for 32-bit version when using installation media like Media Creation Tool or Upgrade Assistant. (This information is specific to Windows 10 as Windows 11 is only available on the 64-bit platform.)
When you use Windows Update, based on your current settings, the system downloads only the files required for the update, reducing the download package size by up to 35%.
When you install a feature update, you are technically installing a new version. Therefore, a complete reinstallation of Windows 10 (or Windows 11) is required. It also means that the app takes longer and is more likely to have issues than installing a quality update.
The only exception is when Microsoft releases minor incremental feature updates, which are provided as cumulative updates that do not require a complete reinstallation.
It is important to note that since the launch ofwindow 11In 2021, the company has almost completely slowed down Windows 10 development as the focus shifts to developing the latest operating system. Windows 10 is expected to continue to receive feature updates, but only in small packages to service the system until end of support, which is October 14, 2025.
What are Quality Updates for Windows?
Quality updates (also called "cumulative updates" or "cumulative quality updates") are the required updates that your computer automatically downloads and installs every month through Windows Update. Usually every second Tuesday of the month ("Patch Tuesday").
A quality update may also be listed as "cumulative update", "security update", or "update for Windows 10". You can view the updates installed on your device at any time by going toIdeas>update and security>Windows Updateand click theView update historyPossibility (On Windows 11 you have toIdeas>Windows Update>update history.)
Unlike feature updates, these updates are generalNOcontain new features, visual changes or significant improvements. Instead, they are maintenance updates intended to fix bugs and bugs, fix security vulnerabilities, and improve reliability with the current version of Windows 10.
However, starting with Windows 11, quality updates may include new features, visual changes, and other minor improvements, but they're not as important as what you'd get from feature updates.
There are four types of quality updates in Windows 10 and Windows 11, including B, C, D, and out-of-band.
Is"B"Released every second Tuesday of the month (aka Patchday) it includes the top fixes and improvements devices need in a given month. Also, this is the only regular release from Microsoft that includes fixes to patch security vulnerabilities.
Is"C"publication occurs in the third week of the month, and the"D"The publication takes place in the fourth week of the month. Unlike the "B" version, the "C" and "D" updates contain preview maintenance bits that the company plans to ship during Patch Tuesday the following month, and do not contain security updates.
Then there are the"out of range"Updates that may contain one or more vulnerability fixes that cannot wait until the next official monthly release schedule.
Quality updates generally increase in size each month, as their cumulative nature means that each update includes the changes that were available in previous updates. As a result, this cumulative approach reduces the number of issues and updates required to download to your device.
Quality updates download and install faster than feature updates because they're smaller packages and don't require a full reinstall, which also means you don't need to back up before installing. However, it's always a good idea to have an up-to-date backup of your files, as errors and hardware failures can happen at any time.
Whether you're running Windows 10 Pro or Windows 10 Home, you can delay quality updates for up to seven days. The only caveat is that you can only pause these updates once, and if they continue, your computer will need to install the latest quality update before you can use the option again.
pack things
Using the "Windows as a Service" model with quality features and updates is Microsoft's approach to ensuring devices remain secure and up-to-date with the latest features and security updates while maintaining consistency and reliability.
In theory, at least, that's true, as we've already seen the software company struggle to keep up with code quality control on an almost regular basis.
If you want more technical details about the updates, you can refer to itMicrosoft support article(opens in a new tab).
While we've covered the difference between feature updates and quality updates for both versions of Windows,Microsoft has plansRe-release a new version of Windows every three years with feature drops (known as Moments) up to four times a year.
All of this means that Windows 11 version 22H2 is expected to be the last annual feature update, then the company will start rolling out new features as soon as they are ready through its new timing releases. Then the next version of Windows is expected to be released sometime in 2024 (three years after the release of Windows 11).
more resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to frequently asked questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, see the following resources:
- Windows 11 in Windows Central: everything you need to know
- Windows 10 in Windows Central: everything you need to know
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Mauro Huculak
Mauro Huculak is the Technical Writer for WindowsCentral.com. His primary focus is writing comprehensive guides to help users get the most out of Windows 10 and its many related technologies. He has an IT background with professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco and CompTIA and is a recognized member of the Microsoft MVP community.
FAQs
The difference between "feature updates" and "quality updates" in Windows 11, 10? ›
Feature updates are released as soon as they become available. Quality updates: Quality updates are traditional operating system updates, typically released on the second Tuesday of each month (though they can be released at any time). These include security, critical, and driver updates.
Is Windows 11 a feature Update or quality Update? ›Windows 11 current version
Windows 11 version 22H2 is the latest release today. It's known as the first feature update, it has been available since September 20, 2022, and the latest quality update is “build 22621.1555.” You can use these instructions to check the version installed on your computer.
Versions. Windows 11 is available in two main editions; the Home edition, which is intended for consumer users, and the Pro edition, which contains additional networking and security features (such as BitLocker), as well as the ability to join a domain.
Are Windows quality updates necessary? ›The feature updates provide more features to your operating system, but you can delay the updates because you are putting your business at risk of a security attack. But on the other hand, when you skip a quality update, you are increasing the risk to the business.
What is the difference between feature Update and cumulative Update? ›Windows 10 cumulative updates are available every month, unlike Windows 10 feature updates which are available to install after six months. Cumulative updates are available on Tuesday of every month's second week.
What is the difference between quality updates and feature updates? ›Feature updates are released as soon as they become available. Quality updates: Quality updates are traditional operating system updates, typically released on the second Tuesday of each month (though they can be released at any time). These include security, critical, and driver updates.
What are the disadvantages of Windows 11 Update? ›Although Windows 11's taskbar looks impressive, it can be considered a downgrade for various reasons. Users may not be able to shift the taskbar to any part of the screen like Windows 10. Instead, it's fixed at the bottom of the screen. One of the most critical drawbacks of Windows 11 is that you can't run it.
How do I choose which updates to install Windows 11? ›Windows 11 offers you the choice of when and how to get the latest updates to keep your device running smoothly and securely. If you're not ready to get recommended updates, you can choose to temporarily pause them from being downloaded and installed. Select Start > Settings > Windows Update .
How do I choose what to Update in Windows 11? ›- Open Settings.
- Click on Windows Update.
- Click the Advanced options tab.
- Under the “Additional options” section, click the Optional updates setting.
- Click the category to see the optional updates – for example, Driver updates.
- Check the optional updates to install on Windows 11.
Version 21H2 (OS build 22000)
Windows 11 will be offered as a free upgrade to eligible Windows 10 devices using a phased and measured approach with a focus on quality. Organizations can choose when and how to upgrade the devices they manage. For more details, see the How to get Windows 11.
Should you install optional quality updates? ›
To make your device work well, you should not install optional driver updates because some of the updates are not the new ones. These updates may cause new issues in your system. Fortunately, these updates are optional.
What is the difference between quality update and extended quality update? ›Quality updates will include security and non-security updates. Extended Quality Update. These are subsequent releases of the previous fork. Extended quality updates will include security and non-security updates.
What happens when you Uninstall latest quality update? ›The “Uninstall latest quality update” option will uninstall the last normal Windows Update you installed, while “Uninstall latest feature update” will uninstall the previous major once-every-six-month update like the May 2019 Update or October 2018 Update.
Should I install cumulative update for Windows 11? ›Cumulative updates for Windows 11 are not necessary, but they can help improve the stability and security of your computer. If you are having problems with your computer, you may want to consider installing a cumulative update. However, if your computer is working fine, you probably don't need to install one.
Do feature updates include cumulative updates? ›Annual feature updates
These updates are typically cumulative and include all previously released fixes. They also include new features and enhancements.
Yes , you need to install the cummulative updates available in your device to keep your device up to date, those updates are needed to improve your security and performance of your computer.
Is 21H2 a quality or feature update? ›Windows 10, version 21H2 is the next feature update. This article lists the new and updated features IT Pros should know. Windows 10, version 21H2 is also known as the Windows 10 November 2021 Update. It includes all features and fixes in previous cumulative updates to Windows 10, version 21H1.
What is the difference between quality and features? ›Quality refers to the inherent characteristics of a product that determine its ability to meet its intended purpose, while features are the specific characteristics or abilities that a product has.
Is 20H2 a quality or feature update? ›As with previous fall releases, Windows 10, version 20H2 is a scoped set of features for select performance improvements, enterprise features, and quality enhancements.
Why and why not to upgrade to Windows 11? ›One of the biggest reasons not to upgrade to Windows 11 is that you are unable to. Windows 11's hardware requirements are a significant step-up for some people. The biggest and the toughest requirement is that computers will need to have an 8th gen Intel or a Zen 2 AMD CPU with a TPM 2.0 chip.
Is Windows 11 good now 2023? ›
"Windows 11 is best operating system compared to windows 10. Looking very cool and improved features are the best thing of windows 11." "The continuous support and regular updates are also a great way to improve the product performance and remove the bugs." "A modern, friendly and secure operating system."
Can I go back to Windows 10 from 11? ›To roll back to Windows 10 from 11, open Settings > System > Recovery and click “Go Back.” Skip the update check, follow the on-screen directions, and click “Go back to Windows 10.” The process will take several minutes to roll back to Windows 10 from 11.
What is the best version of Windows 11 to install? ›As the name implies, the Pro edition is meant for professionals, usually people using their devices for work. There are some additional features on this front, but if you're just buying a PC for personal use, Windows 11 Home is fine.
Do Windows feature updates install automatically? ›Updates will install automatically, but you can choose a convenient time for your device to restart and complete the update. If you don't want to wait for automatic updates to use the latest version of Windows, open Windows Update settings and select Check for updates.
How long does Windows 11 update take? ›How Does It Take to Install Windows 11. General: Between 10 and 20 minutes. On different devices, Windows 11 is installed at different times. For example, it only takes about 10 minutes to update on the latest SSD.
Does Windows 11 automatically update? ›The 2022 update to Windows 11 was released last September, since when Microsoft has been gradually offering it to more and more customers via Windows Update. Now, however, the company has taken the decision to make it an automatic update, which will see PCs rolled on to the latest version without any user intervention.
How do I stop Windows 11 from automatically restarting? ›- Launch Settings.
- Go to System > About.
- From Related links, select Advanced system settings.
- 4.In the System Properties window, open the Advanced tab and click Settings below Startup and recovery.
- Below System failure, uncheck Automatically restart.
Starting in January 2023, Home and Pro consumer and non-managed business devices running Windows 11, version 21H2 will be automatically updated to version 22H2. Since Windows 10, we have been helping Windows users stay up to date and secure with supported versions of Windows through automatic updates.
What is Windows 11 version 21H2? ›There is only one production release of Windows 11 per year, unlike Windows 10. Microsoft uses the same format for Windows 11 production releases as well. The first release of Windows 11 is called Windows 11 21H2. The latest production release happened on Oct 2022, which will be called Windows 11 22H2.
How to update Windows 11 from 21H2 to 22H2? ›- If you want to install the update now, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update , and then select Check for updates. ...
- If version 22H2 isn't offered automatically through Check for updates, you can get it manually through the Windows Update Assistant.
What is a quality update? ›
What are quality updates for Windows? Quality updates (also are referred to as "cumulative updates" or "cumulative quality updates") are the mandatory updates that your computer downloads and installs automatically every month through Windows Update. Usually, every second Tuesday of every month ("Patch Tuesday").
Why are Windows feature updates optional? ›In the Windows Update service, optional updates are additional updates, usually provided by the manufacturer, that don't automatically install. As their name implies, they are not required for the proper operation of your computer. They can, however, prove helpful in resolving unforeseen problems.
What is a security only quality update? ›Security-only update
An update that collects all the new security updates for a given month and for a given product, addressing security-related vulnerabilities. It's distributed through Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), System Center Configuration Manager and Microsoft Update Catalog.
Windows 10 version 21H2 is the most current release today. This feature update is known as the “November 2021 Update,” it's been available since November 16, 2021, and the latest quality update is “build 19045.2846.” You can use these instructions to check the version installed on your device.
What is the difference between Windows Update and Microsoft Update? ›The Windows Update Web site provides security updates for Microsoft Windows operating systems. The Microsoft Update Web site provides these updates in addition to updates for other Microsoft programs, such as Microsoft Office.
What is the latest Windows feature update? ›The final version of Windows 10 is version 22H2, which will reach end of servicing on October 14, 2025. Beginning with Windows 10, version 21H2, feature updates for Windows 10 release are released annually, in the second half of the calendar year, to the General Availability Channel.
How do I uninstall quality update or feature update? ›Select Start > Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates .
Does Windows Update really delete files? ›Upgrading your system from Windows 10 to Windows 11 will not erase all your files. After the update is completed, you should have access to all user files that were previously available in Windows 10.
Is it better to uninstall than to update? ›* If you update an app, your app's cache, settings and data have no or little change. This option should be preferred if you have no space limitation. * If you uninstall and install the app back, all the cache, settings and data will be wiped of. It clears up the extra space used by user's data.
How do I stop Windows 11 from downloading cumulative updates? ›- Type services.msc in the Run box.
- Scroll down to "Windows Update".
- Setting "Windows Update" to "Disabled" will stop Windows 11 updates...Full Guide to Disable Windows 11 Update.
Is it okay to skip software updates? ›
Delaying the latest software update puts phone users at greater risk of personal information being hacked. Once a new OS software update is available, installing it on a device should never occur any later than a few days to a week after release, say cybersecurity experts.
Is it bad to skip software updates? ›Applying software updates is one of the most important things you can do with your computer. In fact, if you don't do it, you're very likely going to get some kind of malware in your system and even get hijacked.
What does Windows 11 Cumulative update do? ›Microsoft has released the Windows 11 KB5025239 cumulative update for version 22H2 to fix security vulnerabilities and introduce 25 changes, improvements, and bug fixes.
Is Windows 11 upgrade or clean install? ›A “clean install of Windows 11” is always recommended for new setups, upgrades, or reinstalls. This method takes the most time and doesn't keep your files, settings, and apps, but it's the method that is more likely to complete the installation successfully.
How do I uninstall Windows 11 quality update? ›- Select Start > Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates . View update history.
- On the list that appears, locate the update you want to remove, and then select Uninstall next to it.
...
| Clean Install | |
|---|---|
| Pros | Cons |
| Fixes most performance-related problems. | Software licenses need to be manually accounted for. |
| Clears spyware and registry file. | Setting up the new operating system will take longer. |
Upgrading your system from Windows 10 to Windows 11 will not erase all your files. After the update is completed, you should have access to all user files that were previously available in Windows 10.
Should I install all updates in Windows 11? ›(This feature update for Windows 11 has been fully available since November 18, 2022.) If your computer has an older Windows release and no issues, it's not worth the upgrade. You should wait a little longer. However, you should not skip the update entirely.
What happens when you uninstall latest quality Update? ›The “Uninstall latest quality update” option will uninstall the last normal Windows Update you installed, while “Uninstall latest feature update” will uninstall the previous major once-every-six-month update like the May 2019 Update or October 2018 Update.
What is a quality Update? ›What are quality updates for Windows? Quality updates (also are referred to as "cumulative updates" or "cumulative quality updates") are the mandatory updates that your computer downloads and installs automatically every month through Windows Update. Usually, every second Tuesday of every month ("Patch Tuesday").
Can you roll back a feature Update? ›
To uninstall a Feature Update, head to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, and scroll down to Go Back to the Previous Version of Windows 10. Click the Get Started button to start the uninstallation process.
What features go away with Windows 11? ›- Lock Screen's quick status.
- Tablet mode.
- The Timeline feature in Task View.
- The Save Search option in File Explorer.
MS Office 2021 on Windows 11 will include upgrades to MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, OneNote and MS Teams.
What is optional quality update? ›An “optional quality update” is a Windows update that you don't have to install immediately. These never include security fixes—if an important security patch is available, Windows Update will install it without waiting. However, some updates are optional. These fix stability issues and other problems in Windows.
What is cumulative update for Windows 11? ›KB5023706 and KB5023698 are mandatory Windows 11 cumulative updates containing the March 2023 Patch Tuesday security updates that fix 83 vulnerabilities in various Microsoft products. Windows 11 users can install today's update by going to Start > Settings > Windows Update and clicking on 'Check for Updates.