How to Block Windows 11 Update in Intune

Windows 11, the latest operating system from Microsoft, brings a host of new features and improvements. However, not everyone may be ready to upgrade to Windows 11 just yet. Whether it’s due to compatibility issues with certain software or a preference for the familiarity of Windows 10, there are valid reasons why some users may want to block the Windows 11 update. In this article, we will explore how to block the Windows 11 update specifically in Intune, Microsoft’s cloud-based device management solution.

Understanding Intune and Windows Update Policies

Before we delve into the steps to block the Windows 11 update in Intune, it’s important to understand the role of Intune and how it manages Windows updates. Intune is a cloud-based service that allows organizations to manage and secure their devices, including PCs, laptops, and mobile devices. It provides a centralized platform for IT administrators to enforce policies, deploy applications, and manage updates.

Windows Update Policies in Intune allow administrators to control how and when Windows updates are installed on managed devices. These policies can be customized to meet the specific needs of an organization, ensuring that updates are deployed in a way that minimizes disruption and maintains system stability.

Why Block the Windows 11 Update?

While Windows 11 offers several new features and improvements, there are valid reasons why some organizations or individuals may choose to block the update:

• Compatibility concerns: Certain software or hardware may not be compatible with Windows 11, and upgrading could lead to compatibility issues.
• Stability and reliability: Windows 10 has been a stable and reliable operating system for many organizations, and they may prefer to stick with it until Windows 11 has been thoroughly tested and proven.
• User familiarity: Windows 10 has been widely adopted, and some users may prefer to stick with it due to familiarity and the learning curve associated with a new operating system.
• Enterprise readiness: Organizations may have specific requirements or dependencies on certain features or applications that are not yet fully supported on Windows 11.

By blocking the Windows 11 update in Intune, organizations and individuals can maintain control over their device environment and ensure a smooth transition when they are ready to upgrade.

Steps to Block the Windows 11 Update in Intune

Blocking the Windows 11 update in Intune involves creating a Windows Update Policy that prevents devices from upgrading to Windows 11. Follow these steps to implement the policy:

1. Access the Intune portal: Log in to the Intune portal using your administrator credentials.
2. Create a new Windows Update Policy: Navigate to the “Devices” tab and select “Configuration profiles.” Click on “Create profile” and choose “Windows 10 and later” as the platform. Select “Endpoint protection” as the profile type and click on “Create.”
3. Configure the Windows Update Policy: In the “Basics” section, provide a name and description for the policy. Under “Settings,” select “Windows Update for Business” as the update source. Choose the desired update ring, such as “Semi-Annual Channel” or “Semi-Annual Channel (Targeted).” These rings allow you to control the timing of updates and ensure compatibility with your organization’s software and hardware.
4. Block Windows 11 update: To block the Windows 11 update specifically, navigate to the “Update policies” section and click on “Edit.” Under “Feature updates,” select “Block” for the “Windows 11” option. This will prevent devices from upgrading to Windows 11.
5. Assign the policy: Once the policy is configured, assign it to the appropriate groups or devices within your organization. This will ensure that the policy is applied to the targeted devices and prevents the Windows 11 update.
6. Monitor and adjust: Regularly monitor the status of devices and update policies in Intune. As new updates and features become available, review and adjust the policies accordingly to meet the needs of your organization.

By following these steps, you can effectively block the Windows 11 update in Intune and maintain control over the update process for your organization’s devices.

Benefits of Blocking the Windows 11 Update in Intune

Blocking the Windows 11 update in Intune offers several benefits for organizations:

• Compatibility assurance: By blocking the update, organizations can ensure that their software and hardware remain compatible and functional without any disruptions.
• Stability and reliability: Windows 10 has been a reliable operating system for many organizations, and blocking the Windows 11 update allows them to continue using a stable platform until they are ready to upgrade.
• Reduced learning curve: Windows 11 introduces a new user interface and features, which may require training and adjustment for users. By blocking the update, organizations can avoid the learning curve associated with a new operating system.
• Controlled update deployment: Blocking the Windows 11 update allows organizations to control the timing and deployment of updates, ensuring that they align with their business needs and minimize disruption.

By leveraging the capabilities of Intune to block the Windows 11 update, organizations can maintain stability, compatibility, and control over their device environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I block the Windows 11 update for individual devices?

A: Yes, by assigning the Windows Update Policy to specific devices or groups, you can block the Windows 11 update for those devices while allowing others to receive the update.

Q: Can I unblock the Windows 11 update in the future?

A: Yes, you can modify the Windows Update Policy in Intune to allow the Windows 11 update when you are ready to upgrade. Simply edit the policy and change the “Block” option to “Allow” for the Windows 11 feature update.

Q: Are there any risks associated with blocking the Windows 11 update?

A: While blocking the Windows 11 update can provide benefits, it’s important to consider the potential risks. By not upgrading to Windows 11, organizations may miss out on new features, security enhancements, and performance improvements introduced in the latest operating system.

Q: Can I block the Windows 11 update on devices managed by other device management solutions?

A: The steps outlined in this article are specific to blocking the Windows 11 update in Intune. If you are using a different device management solution, consult the documentation or support resources provided by the solution to understand how to block the Windows 11 update.

Conclusion

Blocking the Windows 11 update in Intune allows organizations to maintain control over their device environment and ensure compatibility and stability. By following the steps outlined in this article, organizations can create a Windows Update Policy that specifically blocks the Windows 11 update. This approach provides the flexibility to upgrade to Windows 11 when it aligns with the organization’s needs and ensures a smooth transition. However, it’s important to consider the potential risks and benefits of blocking the update and make an informed decision based on the specific requirements and priorities of the organization.