What are the best practices for patching Windows Server Core installations?

1 Choose the right patch management tool

The first step for patching Windows Server Core installations is to choose a patch management tool that suits your needs and preferences. You can use the built-in Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) or Windows Update to download and install patches from Microsoft. Alternatively, you can use third-party tools such as PowerShell, Group Policy, or Configuration Manager to automate and customize the patching process. Whatever tool you choose, make sure it supports Windows Server Core and allows you to monitor and control the patch deployment.

2 Test the patches before applying them

The second step for patching Windows Server Core installations is to test the patches before applying them to your production servers. Testing the patches can help you avoid compatibility issues, performance degradation, or unexpected errors. You can test the patches on a separate test server, a virtual machine, or a backup copy of your server. You can also use the /whatif parameter in PowerShell or the /norestart parameter in wusa.exe to simulate the patch installation without actually applying it.

4 Verify the patch installation and rollback if needed

The fourth step for patching Windows Server Core installations is to verify the patch installation and rollback if needed. Verifying the patch installation can help you ensure that the patches are applied correctly and that your server is functioning properly. You can use the wmic qfe list command or the Get-Hotfix cmdlet in PowerShell to check the installed patches. You can also use the systeminfo command or the Get-ComputerInfo cmdlet in PowerShell to check the system information and uptime. If you encounter any problems or errors after patching, you can rollback the patches using the wusa.exe /uninstall command or the Remove-WindowsPackage cmdlet in PowerShell.

5 Configure the patch settings and preferences

The fifth step for patching Windows Server Core installations is to configure the patch settings and preferences. Configuring the patch settings and preferences can help you optimize the patching process and customize it to your specific needs and requirements. You can use the sconfig.cmd utility or the Set-WindowsUpdate cmdlet in PowerShell to configure the patch settings and preferences. You can also use the Group Policy or the Configuration Manager to apply the patch settings and preferences to multiple servers.

6 Keep track of the patch status and updates

The sixth and final step for patching Windows Server Core installations is to keep track of the patch status and updates. Keeping track of the patch status and updates can help you monitor the patching process and identify any issues or vulnerabilities. You can use the Windows Update History or the Get-WindowsUpdateLog cmdlet in PowerShell to view the patch history and log. You can also use the WSUS console or the Configuration Manager console to view the patch status and updates for multiple servers.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?