Windows 10, version 1607 and onward, includes more servicing tools that can delay feature updates for up to 365 days. Windows 10, version 1511, had few servicing tool options to delay feature updates, limiting the use of the Semi-Annual servicing channel. In the Semi-Annual servicing channel, feature updates are available as soon as Microsoft releases them. For details about the versions in each servicing channel, see Windows 10 release information. The Long Term Servicing Channel, which is designed to be used only for specialized devices (which typically don't run Office) such as those that control medical equipment or ATM machines, receives new feature releases every two to three years.

Organizations can choose when to deploy updates from the Semi-Annual Channel. The Semi-Annual Channel provides new functionality with twice-per-year feature update releases. The Windows Insider Program provides organizations with the opportunity to test and provide feedback on features that will be shipped in the next feature update. Windows 10 offers three servicing channels. Many organizations selectively chose which updates they wanted to install and which they didn’t, and this created countless scenarios in which organizations deployed essential security updates but picked only a subset of nonsecurity fixes. Monthly updates in previous Windows versions were often overwhelming because of the sheer number of updates available each month. Because feature updates are delivered more frequently than with previous Windows releases - two to three times per year rather than every 3–5 years - changes will be in bite-sized chunks rather than all at once and end user readiness time much shorter. With Windows 10, Microsoft will package new features into feature updates that can be deployed using existing management tools. This approach makes patching simpler and ensures that customers’ devices are more closely aligned with the testing done at Microsoft, reducing unexpected issues resulting from patching. In Windows 10, rather than receiving several updates each month and trying to figure out which the organization needs, which ultimately causes platform fragmentation, administrators will see one cumulative monthly update that supersedes the previous month’s update, containing both security and nonsecurity fixes. Deferring feature updates doesn’t affect security updates, but it does prevent you from getting the latest Windows features as soon as they're available. When you defer feature updates, new Windows features won’t be offered, downloaded, or installed for a period of time that is greater than the deferral period set. The Windows 10 Pro, Windows 10 Enterprise, Windows 10 Education, and Windows 10 S editions, you can defer features and quality updates to your PC.

How to Defer Feature and Quality Updates in Windows 10

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