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Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Reviews

Vendor: Microsoft
3.9 out of 5
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What is Microsoft Windows Server Update Services?

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) is a patch management tool that simplifies the administrator’s task of deploying the latest Microsoft updates. Administrators use WSUS to manage the distribution of updates released through Microsoft Update to computers in their network.

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Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is the #3 ranked solution in top Patch Management solutions. PeerSpot users give Microsoft Windows Server Update Services an average rating of 7.8 out of 10. Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is most commonly compared to Microsoft Configuration Manager: Microsoft Windows Server Update Services vs Microsoft Configuration Manager. Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 53% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a government, accounting for 9% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
Microsoft Windows Server Update Services
December 2025
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Microsoft Windows Server Update Services mindshare

As of December 2025, the mindshare of Microsoft Windows Server Update Services in the Patch Management category stands at 4.7%, down from 7.9% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Patch Management Market Share Distribution
ProductMarket Share (%)
Microsoft Windows Server Update Services4.7%
Microsoft Configuration Manager9.5%
NinjaOne8.4%
Other77.4%
Patch Management

PeerResearch reports based on Microsoft Windows Server Update Services reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryPatch ManagementDec 29, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersDec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonMicrosoft Windows Server Update Services vs Microsoft Configuration ManagerDec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonMicrosoft Windows Server Update Services vs Qualys Patch ManagementDec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonMicrosoft Windows Server Update Services vs Qualys CyberSecurity Asset ManagementDec 29, 2025Download
Suggested products
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Microsoft Configuration Manager4.19.5%91%85 interviewsAdd to research
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Key learnings from peers
Last updated Nov 2, 2025

Valuable Features

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services offers valuable features like central management and integration with Active Directory and Group Policy Objects. Users appreciate its ease of use, stability, efficient patch management, and the ability to download updates across networks, reducing internet bandwidth. Its ability to manage updates per operating system and automatic updating capabilities, as well as the flexibility to implement specific security patches, are highly regarded. Users find it cost-effective with no additional licensing fees.
  • "The biggest benefit of Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is that it secures the environment, securing the data points of security and vulnerability, which helps these patches secure our environment and solutions or assets."
  • "Microsoft Windows Server Update Services supports our regular requests for reliable systems, and updates are part of the process of keeping those systems stable, reliable, and confidential."
  • "Microsoft support is the best support of all support, at a certain level."

Room for Improvement

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services requires interface improvements for ease of use, reliable client deployment, and enhanced third-party patch management. Connectivity with non-Windows platforms and better reporting mechanisms are essential. Integration with other tools remains inadequate, while GUI and PowerShell commands need balanced performance. The administrative portal and the aging backend system necessitate attention. Frequent updates disrupt operations, and offline patch options are absent. Improved support and stability are needed for a more efficient enterprise environment.
  • "I would like the updates to be less often and more rarely because they have a high impact on our team since we use these machines for some operations 24 hours a day, seven days a week."
  • "Microsoft Windows Server Update Services should improve its patching solution by providing offline patches because most customers are not willing to provide direct internet access to Microsoft cloud and don't want to expose their workstations through the internet."
  • "The phone tree for Microsoft Update makes me smash my head against my desk."

ROI

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services offers significant internet traffic management by downloading updates once and distributing them internally, reducing bandwidth use. Automation in updating Windows operating systems and Microsoft components like SQL Server is achieved. It decreases crashes and restores time, although no direct commercial investment is needed. Being free, it incurs no extra financial burden. Users mention regular updates without notable financial impact due to available bundle options for larger-scale needs.

Pricing

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services comes bundled with the Windows Server operating system, incurring no additional licensing fees for its use. While costs can be substantial for companies needing multiple licenses, particularly for client machines and additional services like Mail Exchange, WSUS itself does not add to initial expenses. Larger enterprises value its robust features, though smaller businesses might find the overall cost high. Pricing depends on licensing agreements, including volume or rental contracts, affecting upgrade capabilities and cost management.
  • "Configuration Manager is less expensive than Microsoft Windows Server Update Services."
  • "We need one single key for Windows deployments, which is a better option. Buying a license with the same key for all systems, like Windows and Windows Desktop, makes configuring easier. Otherwise, it isn't easy to manage multiple keys for different systems."
  • "The tool could be cheaper."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations primarily use Microsoft Windows Server Update Services for managing updates, patching, and deploying security patches. It supports a wide array of applications, acts as a central hub for patches to minimize internet bandwidth usage, and aids in maintaining compliance and security. Many apply it for patch management, ensuring systems are up-to-date, and addressing security vulnerabilities. It is employed in both on-premises and cloud environments.

Service and Support

Users frequently find information on Microsoft Windows Server Update Services online, reducing direct support needs. Microsoft's technical support is generally seen as responsive, helpful, and accessible, but some users encounter delays and repetitiveness. Many appreciate premium options, despite additional costs. There's feedback suggesting technical support can better organize their processes. Phone support experiences vary, with some frustrations regarding resolution timelines. Experiences overall vary, depending on urgency and individual interactions.

Deployment

Experiences with Microsoft Windows Server Update Services' initial setup vary. Many find it straightforward and quick, often completed in a few hours, citing ease with installation and minimal complexity. However, some users report challenges, noting instances of moderate difficulty that require technical understanding, especially for large deployments or specific configurations. Proper setup sometimes needs additional knowledge about Windows and related services, which can complicate the process for those unfamiliar with Microsoft's ecosystem. Some encounters highlight issues needing troubleshooting.

Scalability

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is described as quite adaptable, supporting various organizational sizes and configurations. Users mention its ability to expand through server additions, and its integration with cloud services enhances adaptability. While some report it handles large setups well, others note limitations in extensive environments. Its ease of deployment and hierarchical setup contribute positively. The service is often rated highly for its flexibility, though specific challenges might arise in very large-scale implementations.

Stability

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services is regarded as highly stable by users. Many have experienced reliable performance with uninterrupted service for extended periods. While some users occasionally encounter minor issues, the platform generally maintains robust stability. Ratings often range between seven and ten for stability, with most users awarding scores of eight or higher. Stability may vary slightly based on specific configurations and environments, but it is consistently dependable and requires minimal maintenance.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business21
Midsize Enterprise5
Large Enterprise21
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business77
Midsize Enterprise55
Large Enterprise146
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
9%
Financial Services Firm
9%
Manufacturing Company
9%
Government
9%
Energy/Utilities Company
6%
Performing Arts
6%
University
6%
Educational Organization
5%
Retailer
5%
Comms Service Provider
4%
Outsourcing Company
4%
Healthcare Company
3%
Construction Company
3%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
3%
Hospitality Company
3%
Media Company
3%
Wholesaler/Distributor
2%
Consumer Goods Company
2%
Insurance Company
2%
Maritime Company
1%
Non Tech Company
1%
Aerospace/Defense Firm
1%
Real Estate/Law Firm
1%
Logistics Company
1%
Engineering Company
1%
Wellness & Fitness Company
1%
Marketing Services Firm
1%
Non Profit
1%

Compare Microsoft Windows Server Update Services with alternative products

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Learn more about Microsoft Windows Server Update Services

WSUS has features you can use to manage and distribute updates from a management console. The WSUS server can also be a source of updates to other servers within the organization, acting as an upstream server.

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Use Cases

The four main use cases that WSUS adds value to businesses are:

  • Centralizes update management.
  • Automates update management.
  • Performs general patch management to ensure compliance and protect against vulnerabilities.
  • Downloads all endpoint updates from data centers to a central location and then distribute them across the organization’s network.

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Features

This built-in server includes the following features:

  • Includes Windows PowerShell cmdlets.
  • Features client and server separation, which means you can deliver versions of the Windows Update Agent (WUA) separately from WSUS.
  • Automatic download of updates.
  • Deploy a targeted download of updates to a specific group of computers.
  • Multiple language support.
  • Advanced reporting capabilities.
  • Centralized management of network resources.

Requirements

In order to be able to use WSUS to manage and deploy updates, it is important to use a supported WSUS version, such as:

  • WSUS 10.0.14393
  • WSUS 10.0.17763
  • WSUS 6.2 and 6.3 with installed KB 3095113 and KB 3159706

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Benefits

  • Stable.
  • Ensures servers are always patched and prevents vulnerabilities.
  • Works great for internal updating.
  • Enforces automated updates and patching for applications.
  • Because the solution is used in the cloud, clients are always using the latest version.
  • Highly scalable and configurable regardless of the organization’s layout.

Different Types of WSUS Deployments

  • Simple WSUS deployment: A server inside the corporate firewall serves clients via a private intranet. The WSUS server downloads updates by connecting to Microsoft Update. Using this model, you can configure multiple WSUS servers with a parent WSUS server.

  • Computer groups: You can use computer groups to deliver updates to specific computers. There are two basic computer groups: All Computers or Unassigned Computers. When a client first contacts the WSUS server, it is added to both. You can then create a group from the Unassigned Computers group to the new group.

  • WSUS server hierarchies: The flexibility of WSUS enables the creation of complex hierarchies of servers. To do this, you need only a single WSUS server connected to Microsoft Update. This will serve as an “upstream server,” and the connected servers as “downstream servers.”

    • You can link WSUS servers in two modes: autonomous or replica. In the autonomous mode, the upstream server shares the updates with the downstream servers but doesn’t update status or group information.

    • The upstream server shares updates, status, and group information in replica mode. You cannot administer replica servers apart from the upstream WSUS server.

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services was previously known as Windows Server Update Services, Microsoft WSUS, WSUS, Microsoft Software Update Services, Software Update Services, Microsoft SUS, SUS, MS Windows Server Update Services.

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Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
IT Manager at Handi Quilter, Inc.2.0I've used Microsoft Windows Server Update Services on-premise, but found it unreliable, slow, and poorly coded. While Microsoft support is excellent, the setup is unintuitive and I rely on other tools for updates and inventory.
Senior Oracle DBA at a financial services firm with 11-50 employees4.0I've used Microsoft Windows Server Update Services for over three years to manage Windows updates reliably, though frequent updates disrupt our 24/7 operations. It's stable and user-friendly, but I'd prefer fewer updates and more cost-effective options.
Senior Technical Engineer at Hitachi Systems, Ltd.4.0I’ve used Microsoft Windows Server Update Services for 15 years; it's great for small to medium organizations, but lacks detailed patch info and offline patches, making it less suitable for large enterprises with strict internet access policies.
Network Architect at a construction company with 51-200 employees4.0I have extensive experience with Microsoft. While WSUS does provide essential patch management, it feels unnecessarily complex. Despite its value, I've decided to pursue other solutions due to the cumbersome process involved in its deployment.
Lead - Technical Services at Impetus3.5I primarily use Microsoft Windows Server Update Services for deployment, specifically managing operating system updates. Its simplicity and effective reporting boost productivity, although improvements are needed for the Windows internal database, as it occasionally causes operational issues.
Network Manager at Broughton High School0.5I found Microsoft Windows Server Update Services helpful for updating PCs and servers, but it struggles with managing updates organization-wide. It requires manual checks to ensure accuracy, and I cannot rely on it. I'm considering Configuration Manager as an alternative.
Technical Manager at a retailer with 11-50 employees3.5We use Microsoft Windows Server Update Services for internal server management and applying Windows updates. It effectively tracks updates and provides good reporting. However, policy management is limited and the approval process needs improvement compared to other tools.
Assistance Manager, ICT Communication at ELNG4.0We use Microsoft Windows Server Update Services to manage patch updates for servers. However, the platform's dashboard and reporting features could be improved for better usability and efficiency. We have not considered or used other solutions or cloud providers.