Windows 8: Update and Restart

As the Windows 8 team tackles the pros and cons of Windows Updates, they began to see a few patterns in the way users liked to receive updates. Some, such as the preferences of automatic updates, were expected, while others, such as the confirmation of individual nonessential updates, were quite surprising. As they collected data having to do with both end-users and administrators habits, the Windows 8 Team made some critical changes in the way the Windows Updater works.

What, Where, When, Why Restart?

When installing new updates, often the toughest choice is when to time the restarts that are needed. Many programs updated are directly related to the Windows Operating System. Therefore, the OS must not be in use for the updates to install properly. This means a restart will be needed and with the new Windows 8 WU now there is less chance of that happening while critical operations are running before data can be saved or operations can be completed.

Prevent Application Interruption

One of the most problematic issue that comes up when implementing automatic updating is the interruption of applications or loss of data as the computer shuts down for installs. This problem was always dealt with before by planning updates at times at which the PC was not in active use. Three AM is the default setting. If the computer is powered down at this time then the user is reminded of the impending update installs at their next login.

These were some great prevention methods, but for some users who would leave open documents or applications at mid-use on their computer and let it sleep or hibernate at night, it could cause problems. Those applications would also be forced to shut down when the automatic install and restart took place. In turn, the restart often lead to a loss of data that may not have been saved. It could even prevent an operation sch as copying to disk from completing before the restart occurred.

New Three Day Restart Warning

Once the updates are installed, the end user will now receive a three-day warning period before the computer is shut down. From the Login page, a message appears giving the user the time left before the restart. The user also has the chance to trigger the updates’ restart themselves at their convenience by clicking the power icon to open the power down options. This method also gives a user the chance to shut down any applications and save data before the restart.

For those who set the computer to delay the install of updates until all are approved of by the administrator, a slightly different message appears that lets the user know updates are ready to be installed. This gives those who want to maintain that level of control the chance to continue monitoring their system closely.

Application In Use Data Prevention

In Windows 8, a restart is prevented when applications or operations are in place. If a game is being played, the restart is prevented. When a word processor is open, your computer is prevented from restarting as well. This also holds true for anything running in the background, as well giving the user that extra layer of prevention when it comes to data loss.

Reducing Number of Restarts

The biggest complaint from users was the nearly constant need to update and restart. Any time of the week and even several times a week, they would have to deal with the continuing occurrences of required restarts. To address this problem, the Windows 8 Development team, with the help of the Windows Update team, reduced the need for downloads so they only happen the second Tuesday of the month. This is the same schedule for security updates. The only exception to this new rule would be any critical updates. With a set day each month for all updates, hosts and administrators both will be able to better prepare for these restarts.


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