How to Automate Windows Updates Using ConnectWise Automate

Keeping Windows systems up to date is crucial for security, performance, and compliance. However, manually managing updates can be time-consuming and prone to errors. ConnectWise Automate provides a powerful solution to automate Windows updates across multiple endpoints, ensuring efficiency and consistency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to set up and optimize Windows update automation using ConnectWise Automate.

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4/7/20252 min read

Step 1: Configure Patch Management in ConnectWise Automate

1. Enable Patch Management

Navigate to Automation > Patch Manager in ConnectWise Automate.
Ensure that Patch Management is enabled for the clients and endpoints you want to manage.

2. Assign Patch Policies

Create or modify patch policies to define:
- Update schedules (e.g., daily, weekly, or monthly updates)
- Patch approval settings (automatic, manual, or testing groups)
- Reboot options (force reboot, prompt user, or suppress reboots)
Assign these policies to groups of devices based on business requirements.

Step 2: Automate Patch Approval and Deployment

1. Configure Automatic Patch Approvals

Set rules to automatically approve critical security patches.
Define exceptions for patches that require manual testing before deployment.
Use third-party patching for non-Microsoft applications if needed.

2. Schedule Patch Deployment

Go to Patch Manager > Schedule Deployment.
Set up a recurring schedule that aligns with business downtime periods.
Choose staggered deployments to reduce network load and system downtime.

Step 3: Monitor and Troubleshoot Patch Deployment

1. Use Patch Compliance Reports

Run patch compliance reports to track update success rates.
Identify devices with failed or missing updates.

2. Create Custom Alerts for Patch Failures

Set up automated alerts to notify IT teams of failed patch deployments.
Use self-healing scripts to retry failed updates automatically.

3. Perform Regular Patch Audits

Schedule monthly patch audits to review overall compliance.
Adjust policies based on audit results to improve efficiency.

Step 4: Optimize Performance and Security

1. Reduce Bandwidth Usage with Local Caching

Configure a WSUS (Windows Server Update Services) integration to cache updates locally.
This reduces internet bandwidth usage and speeds up update deployments.

2. Implement Endpoint Grouping

Create separate update schedules for different groups (e.g., servers, workstations, and test environments).
Prioritize mission-critical devices for immediate patching.

3. Automate Reboots and Maintenance Windows

Use automated reboot policies to minimize disruptions.
Schedule reboots outside of business hours to avoid productivity loss.

Conclusion

Automating Windows updates with ConnectWise Automate ensures your IT environment stays secure, compliant, and up to date—without the hassle of manual patching. By setting up automated approvals, scheduled deployments, and proactive monitoring, MSPs and IT teams can optimize efficiency while reducing security risks.

Need Help with Patch Automation?

As a ConnectWise Automate expert, I can help you fine-tune your patch management setup for maximum efficiency. Contact me at CWAutomateExpert.com for consulting!