How to Use the Microsoft Update Catalog for Software Updates

What is the Microsoft Update Catalog?

The Microsoft Update Catalog is a service provided by Microsoft that allows users to manually search and download various software updates, drivers, and patches for Windows operating systems. This tool is particularly useful for IT professionals and advanced users who need to manage updates across a corporate network or for specific system configurations.

Accessing the Microsoft Update Catalog

To access the Microsoft Update Catalog, visit the Microsoft Update Catalog website. Ensure that your browser settings allow ActiveX controls and active scripting, as these are required for the site to function properly. You may need to add the site to your trusted sites list in your browser settings.

Searching for Updates

1. Using Search Terms:

   • In the Search text box, type your search terms. For example, you might type "Windows 11 Security" or a specific Knowledge Base (KB) number.
   • Click Search, or press Enter.
   • Browse the list of results to select the updates you want to download.

2. Narrowing Your Search:

   • You can narrow your search by using additional fields such as update title, description, applicable products, classifications, and KB numbers.
   • For hardware updates or drivers, you can search by driver model, manufacturer, class, or hardware ID.

Downloading Updates

1. Selecting Updates:

   • From the search results, click on the update title to view details about the update, including the last modified date and update size.
   • Click the Download button on the right side of the page to initiate the download.

2. Saving Updates:

   • A new window will appear with a link to download the update. You can right-click the link and select Save target as to specify a download location.
   • Save the update to a desired path, and ensure you note the location for later use.

Installing Updates

1. Running the Update:

   • Find the location where you saved the update and double-click the update file to start the installation process.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

2. Installing Drivers:

   • For device drivers, you may need to extract the driver files using a command prompt.
   • Use the command expand <CAB FILE NAME> -F:* <DESTINATION> to extract the driver files. Then, stage the driver for plug and play installation or use the Add Printer Wizard as needed.

Using the Microsoft Update Catalog with WSUS

For IT professionals managing updates through Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), the Microsoft Update Catalog can be integrated to import updates directly into WSUS.

1. Prerequisites:

   • Ensure you have the WSUS administrative console installed and the necessary permissions to import updates.

2. Importing Updates:

   • Use a PowerShell script to import updates into WSUS. Copy the update IDs from the Microsoft Update Catalog and paste them into a text file.
   • Run the PowerShell script with the necessary parameters to import the updates into WSUS.

Additional Tips

• Security Considerations:

  • The Microsoft Update Catalog now uses HTTPS for downloads, ensuring a more secure transfer of files.

• Common Issues:

  • If you encounter issues with updates failing to install, such as the "KB5037591 fails to install" issue on Windows 11, refer to specific troubleshooting guides available online.

By following these steps and tips, you can effectively use the Microsoft Update Catalog to manage and deploy software updates, drivers, and patches across your network.