MC697655 – Take action: December 2023 security update is now available (archived)

Product:

Windows, Windows Server

Platform:

Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Admin impact

Links:

Details:

The December 2023 security update release is now available for Windows 11 and all supported versions of Windows 10. We recommend that you install these updates promptly. For more information about the contents of this update, see the release notes, which are easily accessible from the Windows 11 and Windows 10 update history pages. To learn more about the different types of monthly quality updates, see Windows monthly updates explained. To be informed about the latest updates and releases, follow us on X @WindowsUpdate.

Highlights for the Windows 11, versions 23H2 and 22H2 update:
This security update includes improvements that were a part of update KB5032288 (released December 4, 2023).
This update makes quality improvements to the servicing stack, which is the component that installs Windows updates.

Short on time? Watch our short Windows 11 update release notes video for this month's tips.


IMPORTANT After February 2024, there are no more optional, non-security preview releases for Windows 11, version 22H2. Only cumulative monthly security updates (known as the "B" or Update Tuesday release) will continue for this version. Windows 11, version 23H2 and Windows 10, version 22H2 will continue to receive security and optional releases.


IMPORTANT Because of reduced operations during the Western holidays and the upcoming new year, there won't be a non-security preview release for the month of December 2023. Non-security preview releases will resume in January 2024.


For instructions on how to install this update for your operating system, see the KB for your OS listed below:
Windows 11, version 23H2: KB5033375
Windows 11, version 22H2: KB5033375
Windows 11, version 21H2: KB5033369
Windows 10, version 22H2: KB5033372
Windows 10, version 21H2: KB5033372
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 and Windows Server 2019: KB5033371
Windows 10 LTSB 2016 and Windows Server 2016: KB5033373
Windows 10 LTSB 2015: KB5033379
Windows Server 2022: KB5033118
Windows Server 2012 R2: Monthly Rollup: KB5033420
Windows Server 2012: Monthly Rollup: KB5033429
Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1: Monthly Rollup: KB5033433 / Security Only: KB5033424
Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2: Monthly Rollup: KB5033422 / Security Only: KB5033427

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2023-12-13

updated:
2024-08-10

Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS Preperations

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MS Urgency

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MS workload name

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Direct effects for Operations**

- Direct Impact on IT Operations
- Potential downtime during the update installation process
- Roles impacted: IT Administrators, System Engineers
- Dependencies: Network infrastructure may be affected if updates require reboots or network reconfigurations.
- Increased support tickets due to user issues post-update
- Roles impacted: Helpdesk Support, IT Administrators
- Dependencies: User training and documentation may need to be updated to reflect changes in functionality.

- Direct Impact on IT Services
- Compatibility issues with existing applications or services
- Roles impacted: Application Owners, IT Administrators
- Dependencies: Third-party applications may require updates or patches to remain functional after the OS update.
- Changes in security protocols or features that may affect service access
- Roles impacted: Security Officers, IT Administrators
- Dependencies: Security tools and monitoring systems may need reconfiguration to align with new OS security features.

- Direct Impact on IT Users
- User experience changes due to new features or interface modifications
- Roles impacted: End Users, Department Managers
- Dependencies: User training sessions may be required to familiarize staff with new functionalities.
- Potential disruptions in productivity if users encounter issues after the update
- Roles impacted: End Users, Team Leaders
- Dependencies: Business continuity plans may need to be activated if critical applications are affected.

References:
- Microsoft Windows Update History: https://aka.ms/Windows/MonthlyUpdates
- Microsoft Support for Windows Updates: https://support.microsoft.com/help/5032288

Opportunities**

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Potentional Risks**

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