Windows Update Revamp Gives Users More Control Over Security Alerts

Microsoft has quietly deployed update KB5001716, officially titled “Update for Windows Update Service components,” to Windows 10 (versions 21H2, 22H2) and Windows 11 (version 21H2) systems.

Unlike typical cumulative updates, KB5001716 does not introduce new features or security patches.

Instead, it refreshes the Windows Update Service components, primarily focusing on user interface (UI) enhancements and notification mechanisms related to the Windows lifecycle.

After installation, users may notice periodic notifications alerting them to issues that could prevent their devices from staying up-to-date.

These include warnings if a device is running a version of Windows that has reached the end of its support lifecycle or if the hardware does not meet the minimum requirements for the current Windows version.

The update is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to transition users away from Windows 10, which is set to reach end-of-support on October 14, 2025.

Technical Note:

The update is distributed automatically via Windows Update and is also available directly to the Windows Update Client for devices lacking the latest updates.

File attributes for the update include:

How KB5001716 Works and What Users Should Expect

Notification Logic and User Experience

The core function of KB5001716 is to display notifications about the upcoming end of support for Windows 10.

These notifications are designed to prompt users to upgrade to Windows 11 or consider alternative solutions before support ends.

Importantly, the update respects user experience by ensuring notifications do not interrupt full-screen activities, gaming sessions, presentations, or quiet hours—leveraging Windows’ built-in “focus assist” and “quiet time” modes.

Troubleshooting and Error Codes

Some users have reported installation failures, most commonly with error code 0x80070643.

This typically occurs if a previous version of KB5001716 is already installed.

The recommended fix is to uninstall the existing update via Windows Update settings and then reinstall the latest version.

If issues persist, running the following command in an elevated Command Prompt can reset Windows Update components:

textnet stop wuauserv
net stop bits
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
net start wuauserv
net start bits

KB5001716 is not a security or feature update but a strategic step in Microsoft’s push to phase out Windows 10.

It operates quietly in the background, ensuring users are aware of the impending end-of-support and encouraging timely upgrades.

While it does not affect system performance, users should heed its notifications and plan their next steps to maintain security and support.

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