Windows 10 is available in five main editions for personal computing devices; the Home and Pro editions of which are sold at retail in most countries, and as pre-loaded software on new computers. Home is aimed at home users, while Pro is aimed at small businesses. Each edition of Windows 10 includes all of the capabilities and features of the edition below it, and add additional features oriented towards their market segments; for example, Pro adds additional networking and security features such as BitLocker, Device Guard, Windows Update for Business, and the ability to join a domain. Enterprise and Education, the other editions, contain additional features aimed towards business environments, and are only available through volume licensing.
Editions and pricing
Windows 10
Windows 10 | Editions and pricing
Sorry. I cannot find the answer based on the context. reboot automatically to install updates, be notified to schedule a reboot, If Metered conserve limits on Internet usage, Redstone 2, Microsoft troubleshooter Version 1511, Version 1607, Version 1703 and others. On February 9, 2016, Microsoft began to provide release notes for cumulative updates on the Windows website.
system requirements for windows 10 pro 32 bit
user
7 GB of disk space, The 64-bit variants require a CPU, USB flash drive etc
assistant
who is the developer of this operating system?
user
Microsoft
assistant
when was this 10 version first released to the public?
user
July 29, 2015
assistant
on what devices can this operating system be installed?
user
PCs, tablets, smartphones, embedded systems, Xbox One, Surface Hub and Mixed Reality.
assistant
what are some of the special features of this system?
user
Microsoft Edge web browser,  a virtual desktop system, Task View, support for fingerprint and face recognition login are some of them.
assistant
what are some of the editions of this system?
user
Windows 10 Home and Windows 10 Pro are some them.
assistant
name a few patch updates which were released for the system?
user
One major change with the introduction of Windows 10 was that Microsoft started to release a new version of Windows 10 twice per year, and with Microsoft's "modern lifecycle policy" a newly released Windows 10 version starts a "grace period" for the previous version with regard to support unlike previous Windows products which received only infrequent updates via service packs, and support was governed by the "fixed lifecycle policy". With this new policy Home and Pro versions of Windows 10 will be provided with security and feature updates (so called "mainstream support") for up to 18 months after release, "enterprise" and education versions for 24 months.
Patch Tuesday | Windows 10
As with previous Windows operating systems, any device running such an unsupported version of Windows (which no longer receives security patches) is potentially affected by the "unfixed vulnerabilities" issue beginning with the "end of support" date. To counter this Microsoft has designed the update system for the Home and Pro editions of Windows 10 so that in most cases if technically possible the latest Windows version is downloaded and installed automatically this has however drawn criticism due to other problems such forced upgrades can introduce. In addition to the commonly used editions like Home and Pro, Microsoft offers specialized "Long-Term Servicing Branch" (LTSB) or "Long-Term Servicing Channel" (LTSC) versions of Windows 10 with longer support timelines, governed by Microsoft's "fixed lifecycle policy", e.g.
Patch Tuesday | Windows 10
Traditionally, the service provided each patch in its own proprietary archive file. Occasionally, Microsoft released service packs which bundled all updates released over the course of years for a certain product. Starting with Windows 10, however, all patches are delivered in cumulative packages. On 15 August 2016, Microsoft announced that effective October 2016, all future patches to Windows 7 and 8.1 would become cumulative as with Windows 10. The ability to download and install individual updates would be removed as existing updates are transitioned to this model. This has resulted in increasing download sizes of each monthly update. An analysis done by Computerworld determined that the download size for Windows 7 x64 has increased from 119.4MB in October 2016 to 203MB in October 2017.
Windows Update | Service
To give an example: support for Windows 10 Home/Pro version 1703 (which was released in April 2017) will be stopped by Microsoft in October 2018, and support for versions 1507 and 1511 (released in 2015) officially ended in 2017. Microsoft announced that it would give "extended support" (security but not feature updates) for at least one "semi-annual channel" (SAC) Windows 10 version until October 14, 2025. According to Microsoft a "device needs to install the latest version (feature update) before [the] current version reaches end of service to help keep your device secure and have it remain supported by Microsoft".
Patch Tuesday | Windows 10
Starting with Windows 98, Microsoft included Windows Update that once installed and executed, would check for patches to Windows and its components, which Microsoft would release intermittently. With the release of Microsoft Update, this system also checks for updates for other Microsoft products, such as Microsoft Office, Visual Studio and SQL Server. Earlier versions of Windows Update suffered from two problems: Microsoft introduced "Patch Tuesday" in October 2003 to reduce the cost of distributing patches. This system accumulates security patches over a month, and dispatches them all on the second Tuesday of each month, an event for which system administrators may prepare.
Patch Tuesday | History
On February 9, 2016, Microsoft retracted this decision and began to provide release notes for cumulative updates on the Windows website.
Windows 10 | Update system changes
"Windows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSB" will receive extended support until October 13, 2026.
Patch Tuesday | Windows 10
In January 2018, Microsoft patched Windows 10 to account for CPU problems related to Intel's Meltdown security breach. The patch led to issues with the Microsoft Azure virtual machines reliant on Intel's CPU architecture. On January 12, Microsoft released PowerShell Core 6.0 for the macOS and Linux operating systems. In February 2018, Microsoft killed notification support for their Windows Phone devices which effectively ended firmware updates for the discontinued devices. In March 2018, Microsoft recalled Windows 10 S to change it to a mode for the Windows operating system rather than a separate and unique operating system. In March the company also established guidelines that censor users of Office 365 from using profanity in private documents.
Microsoft | 2014–present: Windows 10, Microsoft Edge and HoloLens
Windows 10 Home is permanently set to download all updates automatically, including cumulative updates, security patches, and drivers, and users cannot individually select updates to install or not. Microsoft offers a diagnostic tool that can be used to hide updates and prevent them from being reinstalled, but only after they had been already installed, then uninstalled without rebooting the system. Tom Warren of "The Verge" felt that, given web browsers such as Google Chrome had already adopted such an automatic update system, such a requirement would help to keep all Windows10 devices secure, and felt that "if you're used to family members calling you for technical support because they've failed to upgrade to the latest Windows service pack or some malware disabled Windows Update then those days will hopefully be over." Concerns were raised that because of these changes, users would be unable to skip the automatic installation of updates that are faulty or cause issues with certain system configurations—although build upgrades will also be subject to public beta testing via Windows Insider program.
Windows 10 | Update system changes
The second stable build of Windows10 is called version 1511. Its build number is 10586. It was codenamed "Threshold 2" (TH2) during development. This version is installed by the November Update, which began to be distributed via Windows Update on November 12, 2015. It contains various improvements to the operating system, its user interface, bundled services, as well as the introduction of Skype-based universal messaging apps, and the Windows Store for Business and Windows Update for Business features. On November 21, 2015, the November Update was temporarily pulled from public distribution. The upgrade was re-instated on November 24, 2015, with Microsoft stating that the removal was due to a bug that caused privacy and data collection settings to be reset to defaults when installing the upgrade.
Windows 10 | Version 1511 (November Update)
As a result, other users on the same network may experience significantly slower connections from machines actively retrieving updates. This can be particularly noticeable in environments where many machines individually retrieve updates over a shared, bandwidth-constrained link such as those found in many multi-PC homes and small to medium-sized businesses. Bandwidth demands of patching large numbers of computers can be reduced significantly by deploying Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) to distribute the updates locally. In addition to updates being downloaded from Microsoft servers, Windows 10 devices can "share" updates in a peer-to-peer fashion with other Windows 10 devices on the local network, or even with Windows 10 devices on the internet.
Patch Tuesday | Bandwidth impact
On February 9, 2016, Microsoft reversed this decision and began to provide release notes for cumulative updates on the Windows website.
Criticism of Windows 10 | Update system
Some critical patches involve issues with drivers. Patches may require prior application of other patches, or may require prior or concurrent updates of several independent software components. To facilitate updates, operating systems often provide automatic or semi-automatic updating facilities. Completely automatic updates have not succeeded in gaining widespread popularity in corporate computing environments, partly because of the aforementioned glitches, but also because administrators fear that software companies may gain unlimited control over their computers. Package management systems can offer various degrees of patch automation. Usage of completely automatic updates has become far more widespread in the consumer market, due largely to the fact that Microsoft Windows added support for them, and Service Pack 2 of Windows XP (available in 2004) enabled them by default.
Patch (computing) | Application
Windows 10 Home is permanently set to download all updates automatically, including cumulative updates, security patches, and drivers, and users cannot individually select updates to install or not. Microsoft offers a diagnostic tool that can be used to hide updates and prevent them from being reinstalled, but only after they had been already installed, then uninstalled without rebooting the system. Tom Warren of "The Verge" felt that, given web browsers such as Google Chrome had already adopted such an automatic update system, such a requirement would help to keep all Windows10 devices secure, and felt that "if you're used to family members calling you for technical support because they've failed to upgrade to the latest Windows service pack or some malware disabled Windows Update then those days will hopefully be over." Concerns were raised that due to these changes, users would be unable to skip the automatic installation of updates that are faulty or cause issues with certain system configurationsalthough build upgrades will also be subject to public beta testing via the Windows Insider Program.
Criticism of Windows 10 | Update system
New releases of Windows10, called "feature updates", are released twice a year as a free update for existing Windows 10 users. Each feature update contains new features and other changes to the operating system. The pace at which a system receives feature updates is dependent on the release branch from which the system downloads its updates. Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise and Education can optionally use a branch that receives updates at a slower pace. These modes can be managed through system settings, Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), Windows Update for Business, Group Policy or through mobile device management systems such as Microsoft Intune.
Windows 10 editions | Release branches
The Open Group's last release came as X11R6.4 patch 3.
X Window System | The Open Group
On February 19, 2016, Microsoft restarted the rollout of full builds for the first feature update, officially known as the "Anniversary Update" or "Version 1607", codenamed """Redstone 1""". Like the start of the previous wave, the first builds were not available to all devices that were included in the Windows Insider Program.
Windows 10 Mobile | Anniversary Update (version 1607)
They release security updates to home PCs, tablets and phones as soon as they are ready, while enterprise customers will stay on the monthly update cycle, which was reworked as Windows Update for Business.
Patch Tuesday | Security implications
The tenth stable build of Windows 10, version 2004, codenamed "20H1", was released to the public on May 27, 2020 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since April 16, 2020. New features included faster and easier access to Bluetooth settings and pairing, improved Kaomojis, renamable virtual desktops, DirectX12 Ultimate, a chat-based UI for Cortana, greater integration with Android Phones on the Your Phone app, Windows Subsystem for Linux 2, the ability to use Windows Hello without the need for a password, improved Windows Search with integration with File Explorer, a cloud download option to reset Windows, accessibility improvements, and the ability to view disk drive type and discrete graphics card temperatures in Task Manager.
Windows 10 | Version 2004 (May 2020 Update)
The original version of Windows 10 (also retroactively named version 1507 and codenamed "Threshold 1") was released in July 2015. It carries the build number 10.0.10240; while Microsoft has stated that there was no designated release to manufacturing (RTM) build of Windows 10, build 10240 was described as an RTM build by various media outlets. It was retroactively named "version 1507" by Microsoft per its naming conventions for future stable releases of the operating system. Notable changes in this version include: The final release was made available to Windows Insiders on July 15, 2015, followed by a public release on July 29, 2015.
Windows 10 version history | Version 1507
On Tuesday, March 14, 2017, Microsoft issued security bulletin MS17-010, which detailed the flaw and announced that patches had been released for all Windows versions that were currently supported at that time, these being Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2012, and Windows Server 2016. Many Windows users had not installed the patches when, two months later on May 12, 2017, the WannaCry ransomware attack used the EternalBlue vulnerability to spread itself. The next day (May 13, 2017), Microsoft released emergency security patches for the unsupported Windows XP, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2003.
EternalBlue | Details
The Windows 10 November Update (also known as version 1511 and codenamed "Threshold 2") is the first major update to Windows 10 and the second version of the operating system. It carries the build number 10.0.10586. New features in this version of Windows 10 include: The first preview was released on August 18, 2015. The final release was made available to Windows Insiders on November 3, 2015, followed by a public release on November 12, 2015. Unlike the initial release of Windows, this branch was also made available to existing Windows Phone 8.1 devices and the Xbox One and as a preview release to Windows Server 2016, and was pre-installed on new Windows 10 Mobile devices.
Windows 10 version history | Version 1511 (November Update)
On November 13, 2018, Microsoft resumed the rollout of 1809 for a small percentage of users.
Windows 10 | Version 1809 (October 2018 Update)
Because the word "patch" carries the connotation of a small fix, large fixes may use different nomenclature. Bulky patches or patches that significantly change a program may circulate as "service packs" or as "software updates". Microsoft Windows NT and its successors (including Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7) use the "service pack" terminology. Historically, IBM used the terms "FixPaks" and "Corrective Service Diskette" to refer to these updates.
Patch (computing) | Large patches
At the February 2005 RSA Conference, Microsoft announced the first beta of "Microsoft Update", an optional replacement for Windows Update that provides security patches, service packs and other updates for both Windows and other Microsoft software. The initial release in June 2005 provided support for Microsoft Office 2003, Exchange 2003, and SQL Server 2000, running on Windows 2000, XP, and Server 2003. Over time, the list has expanded to include other Microsoft products, such as Windows Live, Windows Defender, Visual Studio, runtimes and redistributables, Zune Software, Virtual PC and Virtual Server, CAPICOM, Microsoft Lync, Microsoft Expression Studio, and other server products.
Windows Update | Microsoft Update
In May 2016, Microsoft released a "Convenience rollup update for Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1," which contains all patches released between the release of SP1 and April 2016. The rollup is not available via Windows Update, and must be downloaded manually. This package can also be integrated into a Windows 7 installation image. Since October 2016, all security and reliability updates are cumulative. Downloading and installing updates that address individual problems is no longer possible, but the number of updates that must be downloaded to fully update the OS is significantly reduced.
Windows 7 | Convenience rollup
On October 25, 2018, Microsoft confirmed the existence of another bug which overwrites files without any confirmation, when extracting from a ZIP file. The ZIP bug was fixed for Insiders on October 30, 2018, and the public rollout of the update resumed on November 13, 2018.
Windows 10 version history | Version 1809 (October 2018 Update)
Windows 10 November Update, or Windows 10 Version 1511, codenamed ""Threshold 2"", is the first major update to Windows 10. It carries the build number 10.0.10586 and version 1511, referencing its date of release, November 2015. The first preview was released on August 18, 2015. The final release was made available to Windows Insiders on November 3, 2015, followed by a public release on November 12, 2015 to existing Windows 10 users, and as a free upgrade from Windows 7 and Windows 8.1. Unlike the initial release of Windows, this branch was also made available to existing Windows Phone 8.1-devices and the Xbox One and as a preview release to Windows Server 2016, and was pre-installed on new Windows 10 Mobile-devices like the Microsoft Lumia 950.
Features new to Windows 10 | Version 1511 (November Update)
For some years it did not provide support for Windows 7 or older systems, nor for some 64 bit operating systems; updates are now possible for some of these in the 2014 version of Autopatcher. Originally software patches were distributed with AutoPatcher but, following legal complaints the software was modified in 2007. It now downloads all patches to a local hard drive from Microsoft's servers (ensuring the files are original and unmodified) and then allows their offline use as before.
AutoPatcher | Introduction
On February 14, 2006, an initial "hack" of v10.4.4 was released on the Internet by a programmer with the pseudonym "crg92". Within hours Apple released the 10.4.5 update, which was then hacked by the same author within two weeks. On April 3, 2006 Apple released their 10.4.6 update and again patches were released within two weeks that allowed users to install most of this update on non-Apple computers, although this did not include the updated kernel in 10.4.6. In June 2006, an updated Machbook Proh was released for the 10.4.7 update for non-Apple computers using the 10.4.4 kernel. Up to the release of the 10.4.8 update, all OSx86 patches used the 10.4.4 kernel with the rest of the operating system at version 10.4.8.
Hackintosh | OS X Tiger (10.4)
The eighth stable build of Windows 10, version 1903, codenamed "19H1", was released for general availability on May 21, 2019 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since April 8, 2019. Because of new practices introduced after the problems affecting the 1809 update, Microsoft used an intentionally slower Windows Update rollout process. New features in the update include a redesigned search tool—separated from Cortana and oriented towards textual queries, a new "Light" theme (set as default on Windows 10 "Home") using a white-colored taskbar with dark icons, the addition of symbols and kaomoji to the emoji input menu, the ability to "pause" system updates, automated "Recommended troubleshooting", integration with Google Chrome on Timeline via an extension, support for SMS-based authentication on accounts linked to Microsoft accounts, and the ability to run Windows desktop applications within the Windows Mixed Reality environment (previously restricted to universal apps and SteamVR only).
Windows 10 | Version 1903 (May 2019 Update)
Streets & Trips 2007 and later are compatible with Windows Vista and later modern operating systems (Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10). The software had an incompatibility with Advanced Vector Extensions in x86 processors causing it to hang/freeze on the splash screen on Windows 7 SP1 64-bit. Microsoft patched Windows 7 via a hotfix - KB2643882.
Microsoft Streets &amp; Trips | Compatibility
The Windows 10 October 2018 Update (also known as version 1809 and codenamed "Redstone 5") is the sixth major update to Windows 10 and the fifth in a series of updates under the Redstone codenames. It carries the build number 10.0.17763. The first preview was released to Insiders on February 14, 2018. The update was originally made available to public consumers on October 2, 2018, but its rollout was halted on October 6, 2018, due to a serious bug that deletes users' personal files after updating. On October 9, 2018, Microsoft re-released the update to Insiders, stating that all known issues in the update (including file deletion bug) had been identified and fixed.
Windows 10 version history | Version 1809 (October 2018 Update)
The Windows 10 November 2019 Update (also known as version 1909 and codenamed "19H2") is the eighth major update to Windows 10. The update is delivered as cumulative update to the May 2019 Update and carries the build number 10.0.18363. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to the slow ring on July 1, 2019. The update began rolling out on November 12, 2019. Notable changes in the November 2019 Update include:
Windows 10 version history | Version 1909 (November 2019 Update)
As part of Microsoft's unification strategies, Windows products that are based on Windows 10's common platform but meant for specialized platforms are marketed as editions of the operating system, rather than as separate product lines. An updated version of Microsoft's Windows Phone operating system for smartphones, and also tablets, was branded as Windows 10 Mobile. Editions of Enterprise and Mobile will also be produced for embedded systems, along with Windows 10 IoT Core, which is designed specifically for use in small footprint, low-cost devices and Internet of Things (IoT) scenarios and is similar to Windows Embedded. On May 2, 2017, Microsoft unveiled Windows 10 S (referred to in leaks as Windows 10 Cloud), a feature-limited edition of Windows 10 which was designed primarily for devices in the education market (competing, in particular, with Chrome OS netbooks), such as the Surface Laptop that Microsoft also unveiled at this time.
Windows 10 | Editions and pricing
Microsoft has a pattern of releasing a larger number of updates in even-numbered months, and fewer in odd-numbered months. Minor updates are also released outside Patch Tuesday. Daily updates consist of malware database refreshes for Windows Defender and Microsoft Security Essentials. Sometimes there is an extraordinary Patch Tuesday, two weeks after the regular Patch Tuesday. Some updates could be released at any time.
Patch Tuesday | Introduction
Windows 10 introduced a number of new elements, including the option to use a touch-optimized interface (known as tablet mode) or a traditional desktop interface similar to that of Windows 7 along with live tiles from Windows 8. However, unlike previous versions of Windows, where most, if not all, major features for that release were completed by its RTM, Windows 10 continues to receive major features and changes beyond its initial release to market. Microsoft describes Windows 10 as an 'operating system as a service' that will receive ongoing updates to its features and functionality. This is supplemented with the ability for enterprise environments to receive non-critical updates at a slower pace, and to use long-term support milestones that will only receive critical updates, such as security patches, over their ten-year lifespan of support.
Features new to Windows 10 | Introduction
Windows 10 October 2018 Update, or Windows 10 version 1809, is the sixth feature update to Windows 10.
Features new to Windows 10 | Version 1809 (October 2018 Update)
Microsoft warned users that it discontinued support for Windows XP starting on April 8, 2014 users running Windows XP afterwards would be at the risk of attacks. As security patches of newer Windows versions can reveal similar (or same) vulnerabilities present in both newer and older Windows versions, this can allow attacks on devices with unsupported Windows versions (c.f. "zero-day attacks"). However Microsoft stopped fixing such (and other) vulnerabilities in unsupported Windows versions, regardless how widely known such vulnerabilities became, leaving these vulnerabilities unfixed and devices running these Windows versions vulnerable to attacks. Microsoft made a singular exception during the rapid spread of the WannaCry ransomware and released patches in May 2017 for the by then-unsupported Windows XP, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2003 (in addition to then supported Windows versions).
Patch Tuesday | Discontinued Windows versions
Patch Tuesday (also known as Update Tuesday) is an unofficial term used to refer to when Microsoft, Adobe, Oracle and others regularly releases software patches for their software products. It is widely referred to in this way by the industry. Microsoft formalized Patch Tuesday in October 2003. Patch Tuesday occurs on the second, and sometimes fourth, Tuesday of each month in North America. As far as the integrated Windows Update (WU) function is concerned, Patch Tuesday begins at 18:00 or 17:00 UTC (10:00 PST (UTC−8) or 10:00 PDT (UTC−7)). The updates show up in Download Center before they are added to WU, and the KB articles and the Technet bulletin are unlocked later.
Patch Tuesday | Introduction
As with previous versions of Windows since Windows XP, all Windows 10 editions for PC hardware have "N" and "KN" variations in Europe and South Korea that exclude certain bundled multimedia functionality, including media players and related components, in order to comply with antitrust rulings. The "Media Feature Pack" can be installed to restore these features. As with Windows 8.1, a reduced-price "Windows 10 with Bing" SKU is available to OEMs; it is subsidized by having Microsoft's Bing search engine set as default, which cannot be changed to a different search engine by OEMs. It is intended primarily for low-cost devices, and is otherwise identical to Windows 10 "Home".
Windows 10 editions | Variations
Microsoft was criticized for the tactics that it used to promote its free upgrade campaign for Windows 10, including adware-like behaviors, using deceptive user interfaces to coax users into installing the operating system, downloading installation files without user consent, and making it difficult for users to suppress the advertising and notifications if they did not wish to upgrade to 10. The upgrade offer was marketed and initiated using the "Get Windows 10" (GWX) application, which was first downloaded and installed via Windows Update in March 2015. Registry keys and group policies could be used to partially disable the GWX mechanism, but the installation of patches to the GWX software via Windows Update could reset these keys back to defaults, and thus reactivate the software.
Windows 10 | Distribution practices
The ninth stable build of Windows 10, version 1909, codenamed "19H2", was released to the public on November 12, 2019 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since August 26, 2019. Unlike previous updates, this one was released as a minor service update without major new features.
Windows 10 | Version 1909 (November 2019 Update)
The Windows 10 May 2019 Update (also known as version 1903 and codenamed "19H1") is the seventh major update to Windows 10 and the first to use a more descriptive codename (including the year and the order released) instead of the "Redstone" or "Threshold" codename. It carries the build number 10.0.18362. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to the exclusive Skip Ahead ring on July 25, 2018. The update began rolling out on May 21, 2019. Notable changes in the May 2019 Update include:
Windows 10 version history | Version 1903 (May 2019 Update)
On July 29, 2015, Microsoft officially announced that Windows 10 would be released for retail purchase as a free upgrade from earlier versions of Windows. In comparison to previous Windows releases, which had a longer turnover between the release to manufacturing (RTM) and general release to allow for testing by vendors (and in some cases, the development of "upgrade kits" to prepare systems for installation of the new version), an HP executive explained that because it knew Microsoft targeted the operating system for a 2015 release, the company was able to optimize its then-current and upcoming products for Windows 10 in advance of its release, negating the need for such a milestone.
Windows 10 | Public release
The Windows 10 October 2020 Update (codenamed "20H2") is the tenth and current major update to Windows 10. The update is the cumulative update to the May 2020 Update, and carries the build number 10.0.19042. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to Beta Channel on June 16, 2020. The update was released on October 20, 2020. Notable changes in the October 2020 Update include:
Windows 10 version history | Version 20H2 (October 2020 Update)
Microsoft stopped providing security updates for Windows NT 4.0 Workstation on June 30, 2004 and Windows NT 4.0 Server on December 31, 2004, due to major security flaws including Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-010, which according to Microsoft could not be patched without significant changes to the core operating system. According to the security bulletin, "Due to the fundamental differences between Windows NT 4.0 and Windows 2000 and its successors, it is infeasible to rebuild the software for Windows NT 4.0 to eliminate the vulnerability. To do so would require re-architecting a very significant amount of the Windows NT 4.0 operating system, and there would be no assurance that applications designed to run on Windows NT 4.0 would continue to operate on the patched system." Between June 2003 and June 2007, 127 security flaws were identified and patched in Windows 2000 Server, many of which may also affect Windows NT 4.0 Server; however, Microsoft does not test security bulletins against unsupported software.
Windows NT 4.0 | Security
During this time, products like Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) provided Windows patch capabilities via the Windows Server Update Services (WSUS); however, it didn't (and still doesn't) patch third-party products. According to Global Analyst Firm Gartner, this left administrators with limited choices: don't patch third-party products leaving the network at risk, author and test a custom patch each time a third-party product requires an update, or deploy the patches manually to each affected machine. In April 2010, Shavlik released SCUPdates – a catalog of patch content that automated the process of building third-party patches and delivering them to Windows clients via an integration with Microsoft System Center Updates Publisher (SCUP) and SCCM.
Shavlik Technologies | Microsoft Collaboration
Microsoft released an official patch to address the problem on 5 January 2006. This patch may be applied in lieu of other corrective measures. The official patch is available for Windows 2000, Windows XP and Microsoft Windows Server 2003. Windows NT 4 and other older operating systems did not receive a patch as they were no longer supported by Microsoft by then. Steve Gibson stated in his Security Now! podcast #20, that his company Gibson Research Corporation would make a patch available for Windows 9x systems if Microsoft did not. After further research, Steve Gibson stated, in a later Security Now! podcast #23, that Windows 9x and ME are not vulnerable and do not need patching.
Windows Metafile vulnerability | Official patch
Instead, Microsoft will release major updates to the operating system via download or in Windows Update, similar to the way updates are delivered in macOS. So far, nine major versions of Windows 10 have been released, with the version 19H2 being the latest stable release, and 20H2 as the latest preview version.
Microsoft Windows version history | Windows 10 and Server 2016
The Windows 10 May 2020 Update (also known as version 2004 and codenamed "20H1") is the ninth major update to Windows 10. It carries the build number 10.0.19041. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to the exclusive Skip Ahead ring on February 14, 2019. The update began rolling out on May 27, 2020. Notable changes in the May 2020 Update include:
Windows 10 version history | Version 2004 (May 2020 Update)
Soon after the initial release of System 7, the 7.0.1 minor update was released in October 1991. A patch called "System 7 Tune-Up" also followed, which fixed the "disappearing files" bug in which the system would lose files and added "minimum" and "preferred" memory allotments to an application's Get Info box.
System 7 | Version history
The seventh stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1809. It was codenamed "Redstone 5" (RS5) during development. This version is installed by the October 2018 Update, which was released on October 2, 2018. Highlighted features on this build include updates to the clipboard function (including support for clipboard history and syncing with other devices), SwiftKey virtual keyboard, Snip & Sketch, and File Explorer supporting the dark color scheme mode. On October 6, 2018, the build was pulled by Microsoft following isolated reports of the update process deleting files from user directories. It was re-released to Windows Insider channel on October 9, with Microsoft citing a bug in OneDrive's Known Folder Redirection function as the culprit.
Windows 10 | Version 1809 (October 2018 Update)
All features and systems supported remain from previous versions. This release has several bug fixes, including dealing with Windows 10 registry restore.
Double Image Backup | Introduction
Sometimes, a maintainer needs to modify the original source. While, in the past, this was often done simply by editing the files in place and including the changes in the codice_59, this could make maintenance difficult when new upstream versions were released, because all the changes had to be examined and merged when necessary. The newer source format, 3.0 (quilt), uses the quilt patch system, to allow the modifications to be broken into groups of logically separated patches, each of which deals with one change and can be sent upstream as is. These patches live in codice_10. There are also packages using other patch systems, such as codice_61.
Debian build toolchain | Patch systems
New feature indicated for this release are only those added since Windows 8.1 Update 1, released in April 2014.
Features new to Windows 10 | Version 1507
Version 2.30p was a newer version to 2.30 to fix two problems. The patch for DOS XL 2.30 to make it a 2.30p: 100 READ CNT:IF CNT=0 THEN END 110 READ START 120 FOR ADDR=START TO START+CNT-1 130 READ BYTE:POKE ADDR,BYTE 135 NEXT ADDR 140 GOTO 100 150 DATA 3,5481,32,1,21 160 DATA 29,5377,141,217,22,169,16 170 DATA 141,23,22,169,23,141,24,22 180 DATA 169,49,141,30,22,169,64,141 190 DATA 12,0,169,21,141,13,0,96 200 DATA 1,7425,112,0 10 OPEN #1,12,0,"D:INIT.COM" 20 FOR I=1 TO 116 : GET #1,C : NEXT I 30 PUT #1,ASC("9") : CLOSE #1
DOS XL | Patch
In June 2005, Bruce Schneier's "Counterpane Internet Security" reported that it had seen over 1,000 new viruses and worms in the previous six months. In 2005, Kaspersky Lab found around 11,000 malicious programs viruses, Trojans, back-doors, and exploits written for Windows. Microsoft releases security patches through its Windows Update service approximately once a month (usually the second Tuesday of the month), although critical updates are made available at shorter intervals when necessary. In versions of Windows after and including Windows 2000 SP3 and Windows XP, updates can be automatically downloaded and installed if the user selects to do so. As a result, Service Pack 2 for Windows XP, as well as Service Pack 1 for Windows Server 2003, were installed by users more quickly than it otherwise might have been.
Microsoft Windows | Security
To do so would require re-architecting a very significant amount of the Microsoft Windows 2000 Service Pack 4 operating system, there would be no assurance that applications designed to run on Microsoft Windows 2000 Service Pack 4 would continue to operate on the updated system." No patches for this flaw were released for the newer Windows XP (32-bit) and Windows XP Professional x64 Edition either, despite both also being affected; Microsoft suggested turning on Windows Firewall in those versions.
Windows 2000 | Security
Historically, software suppliers distributed patches on paper tape or on punched cards, expecting the recipient to cut out the indicated part of the original tape (or deck), and patch in (hence the name) the replacement segment. Later patch distributions used magnetic tape. Then, after the invention of removable disk drives, patches came from the software developer via a disk or, later, CD-ROM via mail. With widely available Internet access, downloading patches from the developer's web site or through automated software updates became often available to the end-users. Starting with Apple's Mac OS 9 and Microsoft's Windows ME, PC operating systems gained the ability to get automatic software updates via the Internet.
Patch (computing) | History
However, media outlets have been critical of the changes to operating system behaviors, including mandatory update installation, privacy concerns over data collection performed by the OS for Microsoft and its partners, and adware-esque tactics used to promote the operating system on its release.
Windows 10 | Introduction
Originally written for Unix and Unix-like systems, patch has also been ported to Windows and many other platforms. Windows ports of patch are provided by GnuWin32 and UnxUtils. A codice_1 command is also part of ASCII's "MSX-DOS2 Tools" for MSX-DOS version 2.
Patch (Unix) | Ports of patch
Windows 10 April 2018 Update, or Windows 10 version 1803, is the fifth feature update to Windows 10.
Features new to Windows 10 | Version 1803 (April 2018 Update)
As such, Microsoft does not officially consider Windows RT to be a supported upgrade path to Windows 10. Shortly afterwards, Microsoft ended production of both the Surface 2 and Lumia 2520. A Windows Update, KB3033055 "Update for Windows RT 8.1 feature improvement", was released on September 16, 2015, adding the ability to use a version of Windows 10's Start menu (based upon a version seen in earlier beta builds of the operating system due to technical limitations), but otherwise does not contain any other significant changes to the operating system or its functionality, nor any support for Windows 10's application ecosystem.
Windows RT | Windows 10 influence
, the Windows and OS X versions of "Civilization V" have had regular patches since being released, which included major gameplay alterations, numerous crash fixes, and other changes. Patch support for OS X has often been delayed, with some patches being released more than a month after their Windows counterparts. Using released source code the game's community continues the support for the game from where Firaxis left it with a community patch called Vox Populi.
Civilization V | Patches
A patch was released by Square Enix in December 2014, which was noted by Thoman as adding only the graphical features that his external patch had, with no other additions or performance improvements.
Final Fantasy XIII | Windows port
Windows 10 is often described by Microsoft as being a "service", as it receives regular "feature updates" that contain new features and other updates and fixes. In April 2017, Microsoft stated that these updates would be released twice a year every March and September in the future. Mainstream builds of Windows 10 are labeled "YYMM", with "YY" representing the two-digit year and "MM" representing the month of release. For example, version 1809 was released in September (the ninth month) of 2018. The pace at which feature updates are received by devices is dependent on which release channel is used. The default branch for all users of Windows10 Home and Pro is "Semi-Annual Channel (Targeted)" (formerly "Current Branch", or "CB"), which receives stable builds after they are publicly released by Microsoft.
Windows 10 | Feature updates
For Windows Vista "extended support" was ended April 11, 2017, which will leave vulnerabilities discovered afterwards unfixed, creating the same situation for Vista as for XP before. For Windows 7 (including Service Pack 1), support ended January 14, 2020, and on January 10, 2023 for Windows 8.1; this will cause the same "unfixed vulnerabilities" issue for users of these operating systems. Support for Windows 8 already ended January 12, 2016 (with users having to install Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 to continue to get support), and support for Windows 7 without SP1 was ended April 9, 2013 (with the ability to install SP1 to continue to get support until 2020, or having to install Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 to receive support after 2020).
Patch Tuesday | Discontinued Windows versions
The Windows Insider branches receive unstable builds as they are released; it is divided into two channels, "Dev" (which receives new builds immediately after their release), and "Beta" (whose releases are slightly delayed from their "Dev" release).
Windows 10 | Feature updates
In 2010, Google engineer Tavis Ormandy criticized Microsoft for taking too long to patch (fix) a reported security vulnerability in the Windows virtual DOS machine (VDM), which was patched 7 months after Mr. Ormandy reported it to Microsoft. In 2004, Marc Maiffret, chief hacking officer for security research firm eEye Digital Security, had criticized Microsoft for providing a security patch for the Windows ASN.1 implementation only after 200 days.
Criticism of Microsoft Windows | Patch time
Additional patches are still () created and maintained by volunteers.
Xv (software) | Introduction
Microsoft released patches for the vulnerability on 14 May 2019, for Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008, and Windows Server 2008 R2. This included versions of Windows that have reached their end-of-life (such as Vista, XP, and Server 2003) and thus are no longer eligible for security updates. The patch forces the aforementioned "MS_T120" channel to always be bound to 31 even if requested otherwise by an RDP server. The NSA recommended additional measures, such as disabling Remote Desktop Services and its associated port (TCP 3389) if it is not being used, and requiring Network Level Authentication (NLA) for RDP.
BlueKeep | Mitigation
The following editions of Windows 10 are discontinued, i.e. were not part of Windows 10 version 1803. (For both Mobile and Mobile Enterprise, Microsoft confirmed it was exiting the consumer mobile devices market, so no successor product is available.)
Windows 10 editions | Discontinued editions
Windows 10 is available in five main editions for personal computing devices; the Home and Pro editions of which are sold at retail in most countries, and as pre-loaded software on new computers. Home is aimed at home users, while Pro is aimed at small businesses. Each edition of Windows 10 includes all of the capabilities and features of the edition below it, and add additional features oriented towards their market segments; for example, Pro adds additional networking and security features such as BitLocker, Device Guard, Windows Update for Business, and the ability to join a domain. Enterprise and Education, the other editions, contain additional features aimed towards business environments, and are only available through volume licensing.
Windows 10 | Editions and pricing
Windows 10 is the current release of the Microsoft Windows operating system. Unveiled on September 30, 2014, it was released on July 29, 2015. It was distributed without charge to Windows 7 and 8.1 users for one year after release. A number of new features like Cortana, the Microsoft Edge web browser, the ability to view Windows Store apps as a window instead of fullscreen, virtual desktops, revamped core apps, Continuum, and a unified Settings app were all features debuted in Windows 10. Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will be the last major version of its series of operating systems to be released.
Microsoft Windows version history | Windows 10 and Server 2016
Windows 10 is an operating system developed by Microsoft. Microsoft described Windows 10 as an "operating system as a service" that would receive ongoing updates to its features and functionality, augmented with the ability for enterprise environments to receive non-critical updates at a slower pace or use long-term support milestones that will only receive critical updates, such as security patches, over their five-year lifespan of mainstream support.
Windows 10 version history | Introduction
The Windows 10 Anniversary Update (also known as version 1607 and codenamed "Redstone 1") is the second major update to Windows 10 and the first in a series of updates under the Redstone codenames. It carries the build number 10.0.14393. The first preview was released on December 16, 2015. The final release was made available to Windows Insiders on July 18, 2016, followed by a public release on August 2. This release of Windows 10 is supported for users of the Current Branch (CB), Current Branch for Business (CBB) and Long-Term Support Branch (LTSB).
Windows 10 version history | Version 1607 (Anniversary Update)
The sixth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1803. It was codenamed "Redstone 4" (RS4) during development. This version is installed by the April 2018 Update, which was released as a manual download on April 30, 2018, with a broad rollout on May 8, 2018. This update was originally meant to be released on April 10, but was delayed because of a bug which could increase chances of a "Blue Screen of Death" (BSOD). The most significant feature of this build is Timeline, which is displayed within Task View. It allows users to view a list of recently-used documents and websites from supported applications ("activities").
Windows 10 | Version 1803 (April 2018 Update)
Software update systems allow for updates to be managed by users and software developers. In the 2017 Petya cyberpandemic, the financial software "MeDoc"'s update system is said to have been compromised to spread malware via its updates. On the Tor Blog cybersecurity expert Mike Perry states that deterministic, distributed builds are likely the only way to defend against malware that attacks the software development and build processes to infect millions of machines in a single, officially signed, instantaneous update. Update managers also allow for security updates to be applied quickly and widely. Update managers of Linux such as Synaptic allow users to update all software installed on their machine.
Patch (computing) | Software update systems
On July 12, 2016, Microsoft released a patch (KB3170735) for Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 to notify users about future Windows Journal developments. On August 9, 2016, Microsoft released another patch (KB3161102) to remove Windows Journal from Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 due to the Windows Journal file format (Journal Note File, or JNT) being susceptible to security exploits.
Windows Journal | Discontinuation
Computer programs can often coordinate patches to update a target program. Automation simplifies the end-user's task they need only to execute an update program, whereupon that program makes sure that updating the target takes place completely and correctly. Service packs for Microsoft Windows NT and its successors and for many commercial software products adopt such automated strategies. Some programs can update themselves via the Internet with very little or no intervention on the part of users. The maintenance of server software and of operating systems often takes place in this manner. In situations where system administrators control a number of computers, this sort of automation helps to maintain consistency.
Patch (computing) | History
Windows Insider builds continued being released after the release to manufacturing (RTM) of Windows10.
Windows 10 | Preview releases
The fifth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1709. It was codenamed "Redstone 3" (RS3) during development. This version is installed by the Fall Creators Update, which was released on October 17, 2017. Version 1709 introduces a new feature known as "My People", where shortcuts to "important" contacts can be displayed on the taskbar. Notifications involving these contacts appear above their respective pictures, and users can communicate with the contact via either Skype, e-mail, or text messaging (integrating with Android and Windows 10 Mobile devices). Support for additional services, including Xbox, Skype for Business, and third-party integration, are to be added in the future.
Windows 10 | Version 1709 (Fall Creators Update)
Ion Storm created the first (1.01), which fixed the Windows 2000 buffer overrun crash and implemented other improvements such as taxi-cabs between distant points and enhanced save game functionality. Ion Storm released the first patch (1.01) on July 2, 2001. Joey Liaw set up a GeoCities website for reporting bugs and technical information after the game's release, and worked on a new patch in his spare time. The second patch (1.02, or build 44) was released in May 2003 and overhauls the save-game system and provides other important stability fixes. The third and fourth patches—1.02 (build 45), released September 2003, and 1.02 (build 46), released April 2004—are fan-made unofficial patches and fix most of the remaining bugs.
Anachronox | Release and patches
Windows Console windows (for both PowerShell and the legacy Command Prompt) can now be resized without any restrictions, can be made to cover the full screen by pressing , and can use standard keyboard shortcuts, such as those for cut, copy, and paste. Other features such as word wrap and transparency were also added. These functions can be disabled to revert to the legacy console if needed. The Anniversary Update adds Windows Subsystem for Linux, which allows the installation of a user space environment from a supported Linux distribution that runs natively on Windows. The subsystem translates Linux system calls to those of the Windows NT kernel.
Windows 10 | Command line
Microsoft occasionally releases updates such as service packs for its Windows operating systems to fix bugs, improve performance and add new features.
Windows Vista | Updates
Microsoft was criticized for the tactics that it used to promote its free upgrade campaign for Windows 10, including adware-like behaviors, using deceptive user interfaces to coax users into installing the operating system, downloading installation files without user consent, and making it difficult for users to suppress the advertising and notifications if they did not wish to upgrade to 10. The upgrade offer was marketed and initiated using the "Get Windows 10" (GWX) application, which was first downloaded and installed via Windows Update in March 2015. Registry keys and Group Policy settings could be used to partially disable the GWX mechanism, but the installation of patches to the GWX software via Windows Update could reset these keys back to defaults, and thus reactivate the software.
Criticism of Windows 10 | Distribution practices
Windows 10 Anniversary Update, or Windows 10 Version 1607, codenamed ""Redstone 1"", is the second major update to Windows 10 and the first of the 2 major updates that were given the "Redstone" codename. It was released on July 29, 2016.
Features new to Windows 10 | Version 1607 (Anniversary Update)
Within hours of Leopard's release, an AMD/Intel SSE2/3 Kernel Patcher was created that removed the HPET requirement from an original untouched mach_kernel file, a core component of the Mac OS.
Hackintosh | OS X Leopard (10.5)
The Windows 10 April 2018 Update (also known as version 1803 and codenamed "Redstone 4") is the fifth major update to Windows 10 and the fourth in a series of updates under the Redstone codenames. It carries the build number 10.0.17134. The first preview was released to Insiders on August 31, 2017. The final release was made available to Windows Insiders on April 16, 2018, followed by a public release on April 30, and began to roll out on May 8.
Windows 10 version history | Version 1803 (April 2018 Update)
Initially, Microsoft was very vague about specific changes within each cumulative update package. However, since early 2016, Microsoft has begun releasing more detailed information on the specific changes.
Windows Update | Service
The Windows 10 Fall Creators Update (also known as version 1709 and codenamed "Redstone 3") is the fourth major update to Windows 10 and the third in a series of updates under the Redstone codenames. It carries the build number 10.0.16299. The first preview was released to Insiders on April 7, 2017. The final release was made available to Windows Insiders on September 26, 2017 before being released to the public on October 17.
Windows 10 version history | Version 1709 (Fall Creators Update)
The third stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1607. It was codenamed "Redstone 1" (RS1) during development. This version is installed by the Anniversary Update, which was released on August 2, 2016, a little over one year after the first stable release of Windows 10. Codename "Redstone" was originally thought to have been set aside for two feature updates. While both were originally to be released in 2016, the second was moved into 2017 so that it would be released in concert with that year's wave of Microsoft first-party devices. The Anniversary Update introduces new features such as the Windows Ink platform, which eases the ability to add stylus input support to Universal Windows Platform apps and provides a new "Ink Workspace" area with links to pen-oriented apps and features, enhancements to Cortana's proactive functionality, a dark user interface theme mode, a new version of Skype designed to work with the Universal Windows Platform, improvements to Universal Windows Platform intended for video games, and offline scanning using Windows Defender.
Windows 10 | Version 1607 (Anniversary Update)
Updates to the Windows Desktop Update were part of IE 4.0 hotfixes and service packs. Later, shell security updates for Windows 95 and Windows NT 4.0 included both the update to the Windows Desktop Update version and the original version. Also sometimes the Windows Desktop Update version and the update to the original version were packaged separately. The Windows Desktop Update also added the ability to create desk-bands like the quicklaunch bar. It also introduced new extensibility APIs for the Windows file manager, Explorer.exe (also a shell).
Windows Desktop Update | Updates
Windows Update uses the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) to download the updates, using idle network bandwidth. However BITS will use the speed as reported by the network interface (NIC) to calculate bandwidth. This can lead to bandwidth calculation errors, for example when a fast network adapter (e.g. 10 Mbit/s) is connected to the network via a slow link (e.g. 56 kbit/s) according to Microsoft "BITS will compete for the full bandwidth [of the NIC] ... BITS has no visibility of the network traffic beyond the client." Furthermore, the Windows Update servers of Microsoft do not honor the TCP's slow-start congestion control strategy.
Patch Tuesday | Bandwidth impact
Windows 10 is a series of operating systems developed by Microsoft and released as part of its Windows NT family of operating systems. It is the successor to Windows 8.1, released nearly two years earlier, and was released to manufacturing on July 15, 2015, and broadly released for the general public on July 29, 2015. Windows 10 was made available for download via MSDN and Technet, and as a free upgrade for retail copies of Windows 8 and Windows RT users via the Windows Store. Windows 10 receives new builds on an ongoing basis, which are available at no additional cost to users, in addition to additional test builds of Windows 10, which are available to Windows Insiders.
Windows 10 | Introduction
Software updates, more commonly known as patches, have been available on both Nintendo 3DS, since April 25, 2012, and Wii U, since November 18, 2012, via a system update. These system updates gave the ability to patch downloadable titles, as well as retail games, through both the Nintendo eShop and HOME Menu. These patches have the main purpose of fixing security vulnerabilities and other bugs, and improving the usability or performance. Patches can also be downloaded while using other applications via the systems' Download Manager.
Nintendo Network | Software updates
Windows 10 restored the Previous Versions tab that was removed in Windows 8; however, in earlier builds it depended upon the File History feature instead of Volume Shadow copy. Current builds now allow restoration from both File History and System Protection (System Restore) points, which use Volume Shadow Copy.
Shadow Copy | Windows 10
First, they received names with arbitrary alphanumeric suffixes as with Windows ME (4.90), Windows XP (5.1) and Windows Vista (6.0). Then, once again Microsoft adopted incremental numbers in the title, but this time, they were not version numbers; the version numbers of Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 are respectively 6.1, 6.2 and 6.3. In Windows 10, the version number leaped to 10.0 and subsequent updates to the OS only incremented build number and update build revision (UBR) number.
Software versioning | Microsoft Windows
On July 17, 2017, reports began to come that Windows 10 Creators Update refused to install on PCs and tablets sporting Intel Atom "Clover Trail" processors. At first, it appeared as though this might have been a temporary block as Microsoft and hardware partners work to fix the issues preventing the operating system to run well. However, Microsoft later confirmed that devices running the "Clover Trail" Intel Atom processors would not be receiving the Creators Update, as the processors are no longer supported by Intel and does not have the appropriate firmware to properly run versions of Windows 10 newer than the Anniversary Update.
Windows Insider | Supported processors