Microsoft Office Updates
Latest Security Updates
Hold onto your keyboard, folks—Microsoft Office just dropped its latest security updates on October 8, 2024. This security armor covers a bunch of software goodies like Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise and business, along with Office versions stretching from 2016 to the spanking new 2024 editions (source).
Excel Update Version 2408
Your favorite number-cruncher, Microsoft Excel, got a fresh new look in the Current Channel on September 10, 2024. Riding in on Version 2408 (Build 17928.20156), it’s packing slick new features and some under-the-hood tweaks to speed things up (source).
| Version | Build Number | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2408 | 17928.20156 | September 10, 2024 |
Outlook Update Version 2305
Email warriors out there will appreciate the new update Microsoft Outlook got on June 14, 2023. Version 2305 (Build 16529.20182) promises smoother management of your inbox and calendar, which means more time for coffee breaks (source).
| Version | Build Number | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2305 | 16529.20182 | June 14, 2023 |
Word Update Version 2111
Word processors, rejoice! Back on December 14, 2021, Word rolled out Version 2111 (Build 14701.20248) in the Monthly Enterprise Channel, offering new ways to team up and squash annoying bugs (source).
| Version | Build Number | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2111 | 14701.20248 | December 14, 2021 |
PowerPoint Update Version 2008
Remember the days of slideshows gone wrong? Well, you’re in luck. The update for PowerPoint released on November 10, 2020, Version 2008 (Build 13127.20760), jazzed up multimedia integration so your presentations flow like a charm (source).
| Version | Build Number | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 13127.20760 | November 10, 2020 |
Don’t miss a beat with the latest palette of updates from Microsoft Office. You’re invited to visit our Microsoft technology news and Microsoft product releases pages to stay in the loop.
Windows 11 Version 24H2
Get the scoop on the freshest tweaks and tidbits in Microsoft’s latest release for Windows 11 Version 24H2. This update’s packing quite the punch, jam-packed with enhancements to make using your PC smoother, safer, and just plain better.
Checkpoint Cumulative Updates
A highlight in this release is the new checkpoint cumulative updates. Remember those lengthy downloads that crawled along like snails? Well, Microsoft has done some magic, making updates way more efficient. Now, updates feed off previous ones, cutting down on the data they need to haul around. So, you’ll be back to Netflix binges and online shopping a lot quicker.
| Win | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Time Wins | Speedy downloads and installs |
| Data Wins | Less of those pesky gigabytes going missing |
| Space Wins | Tiny update files mean more room for movies or games |
New Update Delivery Game Plan
Microsoft has shuffled things up with how updates land on your machine. They’ve set up a consistent schedule, making sure updates land on time with fewer bumps in the road. Businesses can now sort updates quicker without feeling like they’re deciphering a puzzle just to keep things running.
Safety Boosts
Keeping your digital life secure is still a big deal. Version 24H2 comes packed with security features meant to guard your data and keep your PC fortified. A few key changes include:
- Local Security Authority (LSA): Locked down and tight right from the get-go, fresh as new laces on sneakers.
- Remote Mailslot Protocol: Flipped off by default—to keep any creepy crawlers at bay.
- LAPS Stronger: Making life easier and more secure for your local admin passwords.
- Rusty Moves in GDI: Switching gears with Rust in the Windows kernel to build a more sturdy and safe system.
Copilot+ PCs
This version introduces us to Copilot+ PCs, Windows 11 devices powered by artificial smarts with some serious chops. They feature a brainy neural processing unit (run faster than a caffeinated squirrel), clocking 40 trillion operations per second. Exclusive AI features give these devices a leg up, making your interactions more intuitive and quicker.
| Perk | What You Get |
|---|---|
| NPU Zing | Zipping through tasks at 40 trillion ops/second |
| Special Sauce | Unique AI skills for Copilot+ |
| User Experience | Smoother, zippier, and just plain better |
For more juicy details on these updates and all things Microsoft, hit up our specific pages to stay in the loop on what’s rolling out in the world of Microsoft tech.
Windows 11 Version 24H2 Features
Windows 11 is rolling out Version 24H2 with a collection of new goodies aimed at making your tech life safer, faster, and just outright smoother. Let’s dive into what’s on the platter:
SMB Signing Tweaks
Now, Microsoft isn’t messing around when it comes to locking down your data. On Windows 11 Version 24H2, those letters – SMB (think of it as the bouncer for your library of files) – have a rock-solid signing locked in for every connection. Be you a Home user, or someone in Education, Pro, or Enterprise, it’s got you covered. Oh, and they even threw in mandatory encryption for outgoing SMB grooves. That’s tech talk for “your data will be snug as a bug.”
| Edition | SMB Signing | Encryption? |
|---|---|---|
| Home | Locked & Loaded | Yep |
| Pro | Locked & Loaded | Yep |
| Education | Locked & Loaded | Yep |
| Enterprise | Locked & Loaded | Yep |
You can hear cyber-nasties groaning already.
Copilot+ and Its Brainiac Moves
Say hello to Copilot+ PCs! They’re acting like a brainiac with a turbocharged noodle thanks to their neural processing unit, or NPU if you wanna impress someone. This beast powers through over 40 trillion math problems per second, giving it the oomph to do some pretty exclusive, smashing things.
- NPU Muscle: Over 40 trillion ops per second
- Cool Tools: Only on Copilot+ PCs
Got a need for speed in your computing? Copilot+ PCs give you big-league performance without breaking a sweat.
Remote Mailslot Protocol: The End of an Era
Windows 11 Version 24H2 snuffs out the ancient Remote Mailslot protocol by default. It was given the ax back in late 2023. Kicking this one to the curb means fewer security holes for any pesky cyber critters to wriggle through.
- Status: Sayonara, Disabled
- Why Bother: In with the new security, out with the old
Doing away with these relics means a leaner, meaner security posture for your system.
Deployment – Easy as Pie
Not to worry about losing your hair over updates! Version 24H2 mindfully follows its older sibling’s routine for getting those updates out the door. Just make sure your device is all ready to play nice, following these pathways:
| Current Version | Update Direction |
|---|---|
| Windows 10 | Wagon hops to Windows 11, ver 24H2 |
| Windows 11, ver 21H2 | Leap to Windows 11, ver 24H2 |
| Windows 11, ver 22H2 | Direct ticket to Windows 11, ver 24H2 |
No surprises. Just a documented, step-by-step playbook to get your tech up to snuff with Version 24H2.
Whenever you’re curious for more juicy tidbits on Microsoft magic, give our microsoft technology news a whirl. Keep your finger on the pulse with our scoop on the latest microsoft product releases.
Windows Update Cycle
Digging into the Windows Update Cycle is key for anyone juggling Microsoft’s world of operating systems. Let’s break down the various updates Microsoft rolls out, like Monthly Security Updates, Optional Preview Releases, and those rare Out-of-Band specials.
Monthly Security Updates
Microsoft rolls out its monthly security updates like your favorite TV show releasing a new episode, right on schedule—every second Tuesday at 10:00 AM Pacific Time. These updates are a one-stop-shop, bagging both fresh security fixes and leftovers from last month’s Optional Preview. Staying on top of these updates isn’t just nerdy homework; it’s your device’s best defense against the digital monsters lurking out there. Want more on Microsoft’s gadget gossip? Head over to our microsoft technology news page.
| Update Type | Release Day | Content Included |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Security | Second Tuesday (10 AM PST/PDT) | New and previously-released security fixes, non-security updates from the past month’s preview |
Optional Preview Releases
These are like sneak peeks—Optional non-security preview releases—popping up on the fourth Tuesday each month, same trusty time as always. IT whizzes grab these early as a chance to give next month’s security update a dress rehearsal. They mostly cater to the newest spiffed-up versions of Windows, keeping everything fresh and shiny.
| Update Type | Release Day | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Optional Preview | Fourth Tuesday (10 AM PST/PDT) | Early peek at next month’s security update |
Out-of-Band Releases
Out-of-Band (OOB) releases are the unexpected party crashers. They handle emergencies, fixing bugs or security holes ASAP, even if it doesn’t fit the regular update party. For the lowdown on these impromptu fixes, hit up our microsoft product releases page.
| Update Type | Release Day | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Out-of-Band | As Needed | Swift solutions for urgent security or quality problems |
Keeping up with these updates is like having a safety and performance upgrade for your business. It’s as crucial as coffee on a Monday morning. For a little extra on financial antics, peek into microsoft financial news, or if you’re chasing the clouds, sniff around in microsoft cloud computing news.
Microsoft Entra Internet Access
Microsoft Entra Internet Access is all about cranking up security and keeping things compliant for those who’ve jumped on the Microsoft bandwagon. Let’s break it down with what’s on offer.
Secure Web Gateway Solution
Who loves juggling multiple user accounts and apps across different platforms? Nobody! Microsoft Entra Internet Access doesn’t believe in that kind of hassle. By plugging into Microsoft Entra ID, it cuts the chaos of managing users and apps all over the place, making security a breeze (Petri).
| What it Does | Tell Me More |
|---|---|
| User Management | Plays nice with Entra ID |
| Security Reporting | Comes with reports and dashboards |
| Compatibility | Works with third-party Sassy solutions |
Advanced Security Capabilities
Time to talk tough security! From stopping token monkey tricks to putting a kibosh on data leaks, this platform has it all. The Compliant Network Control is on the lookout for any token-replay-mischief during logins, making sure no one slips through the digital cracks when trying to sneak past the security barricade (Microsoft).
Web Filtering Options
Want to be the boss of where folks roam online? Microsoft Entra Internet Access lets you do just that with its web-filtering options. Whether you want to block by category or target specific domains (FQDN filtering), you’re covered. Your network security rules can match up with Conditional Access for intense control over where users land on the web (Microsoft).
| Filter Style | What it Does |
|---|---|
| Category Filtering | Clamps down based on web types |
| FQDN Filtering | Targets exact domain names |
Network Compliance Features
Keep your network squeaky-clean! Microsoft’s Entra Internet Access backs this up with its Compliant Network Control, brushing off token-replay scoundrels and sticking to enterprise security rules. Plus, with universal tenant restrictions (TRv2), you keep a tight lid on any sneaky data-leaking attempts right where you work (Petri).
For even more Microsoft vibes, check out the latest on Microsoft technology news, Microsoft financial news, Microsoft cloud computing news, and Microsoft product releases. Dive into our articles for a little more on what Microsoft’s cooking up.
Windows App Features
Microsoft’s new Windows App is shaking up the scene with some snazzy new features that are all about making life easier for everyone using it, no matter what platform they’re on. Here’s what’s new and why it matters.
Multi-Monitor Support
First up, we’ve got improved multi-monitor support. Imagine spreading out your work across a couple of screens without a hitch. That’s like having your desk magically expand to fit all your stuff, be it spreadsheets or cat videos — no judgment. Crucial for folks juggling multiple tasks, these setups help prevent your brain from short-circuiting when switching apps or projects.
Peripheral Redirection
Next, let’s talk peripheral redirection, which is just a fancy way of saying your gadgets play nice with the app. We’re talking printers, USB drives, and even those nifty smart card readers. If you’re the kind of person who can’t function without your trusty peripherals, this one’s for you. This feature makes sure your remote desktop feels like your real desktop, minus the coffee stains. And with that Relayed Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Shortpath, say goodbye to laggy connections and hello to a smoother experience (Petri).
Security Enhancements
In the age of cyber boogeymen, security isn’t just the icing on the cake—it’s the whole cake. The app’s beefed-up security features mean your data’s got a better bodyguard than a B-list celebrity. Check out what they’re packing:
-
SMB Signing and Encryption: Baked right into Windows 11 (the 24H2 version, if you’re keeping track at home), the app auto-enforces SMB signing and encryption. So whether you’re sending files across town or across the globe, Microsoft’s got your back (Microsoft).
-
Account Switching: Jumping between Microsoft Entra accounts on your Mac or iPhone is both a breeze and fort Knox-level secure. It means less time staring at login screens and more time getting stuff done (Petri).
Also, consider the Windows App your all-access pass. It opens doors to services like Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, Microsoft Dev Box, and even lets you remote into your personal PC. If you’re hungry for more, check out our Microsoft product releases page.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Multi-Monitor Support | Stretch your workspace across multiple screens like a boss |
| Peripheral Redirection | Get your gadgets talking to each other, including printers, USBs, and more |
| Security Enhancements | New safety measures for SMB signing, encryption, and slicker account switching |
For even more cool bits and pieces about what Microsoft is up to, keep an eye on our Microsoft technology news articles.
WSUS Deprecation
Microsoft’s shaking things up with their Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), leaning towards a cloud-focused future. They’re not playing around and have set their sights on more streamlined platforms.
No More New Toys
Microsoft’s pulled the plug on adding fancy new bits and pieces to WSUS. From here on out, they’ll keep things running but nothing fresh is coming down the line. You can still get your updates as always, just don’t hold your breath for any new surprises.
Up, Up and Away to the Cloud
This game change is all about nudging folks toward cloud-based tools. Why? They’re saying it’s got better gizmos and is way more efficient than the trusty old WSUS.
| Cloud-Based Services | What’s It For? |
|---|---|
| Windows Autopatch | Makes sure Windows gizmos are up to date automatically. |
| Microsoft Intune | Keeps client updates on track, safe and sound. |
| Azure Update Manager | Handles server updates like a boss. |
These cloud tools are like that fancy Swiss army knife in IT – lots of oomph, blends well with other Microsoft stuff, and can tackle the big jobs.
Curious about how Microsoft’s strategizing cloud dominance? Check out Microsoft Cloud Computing News.
Should You Move? Yep, Here’s How!
For those still hitching a ride with WSUS, it’s time to start planning a switch to cloud solutions. A strategic change can keep the gears turning smoothly.
Move on Up: The How-to Guide
- Scope Out WSUS: Get a handle on where your WSUS stands and what plays nice with what.
- Weigh Your Cloud Options: Decide which tool fits best—whether it’s Windows Autopatch, Microsoft Intune, or Azure Update Manager.
- Game Plan Your Move: Sketch out a playbook for the shift, roping in timelines and what you’ll need.
- Make Your Move: Ease into the new setup, keeping your operations in the clear.
- Tune It Up: Once you’re over the hump, check everything’s tip-top and tweak for best results.
Need the nitty-gritty on managing the leap? Microsoft’s resource goldmine and community blogs are your friends. Keep your ear to the ground with latest Microsoft news.
This switch to using fluffy clouds for updates is part of Microsoft’s grand vision of IT that’s snazzier, more secure, and ready to grow. Make sure your team is ready to roll with the changes. For more scoop on Microsoft gear and updates, pop over to Microsoft Product Releases.
Windows Update Mess-Ups
Linux is Throwing a Tantrum
Microsoft had a messy moment in August 2024, when Linux seemed to rebel against their updates. Folks using systems with both Windows and Linux shouted— “Hey, Linux ain’t booting right!” This drama came to light post-August updates. Thankfully, the tech wizards at Microsoft waved their magic wand, and by September 2024, all was forgiven (Microsoft says it’s all good now).
Patching Things Up
Microsoft stitched together a fix to calm down Linux. The updates in September (KB5043076) and a few that followed in October (KB5044285) were pure digital therapy, removing those pesky settings from August. Bye-bye boot drama!
| Update | Star Date | Problem Solved? |
|---|---|---|
| KB5043076 | September 2024 | Yup, Linux is back! |
| KB5044285 | October 8, 2024 | Even smoother sailing ahead |
If your Linux is still grumpy, grab those updates. They come packed with not only security sweetness but also the right mojo to keep your boot troubles at bay.
What’s Next?
Microsoft’s got big plans to keep this dual-boot dance smooth and groovy. Future updates promise to sprinkle more magic over any leftover Linux boot dramas. Make sure your PC stays up to date, dressed in the latest patches, so it’s safe and purring along.
For more of the scoop and scuttlebutt on updates, dip into our Microsoft tech tales. Keep your eyes peeled for juicy tidbits on new Microsoft stuff and updates to the update cycle. Also, take a peek at MS cloud chronicles for a wide-angle view of Microsoft’s hustle and bustle.