MC715594 – Take action: February 2024 security update is now available

Product:

Copilot, Windows, Windows Server

Platform:

Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Admin impact

Links:

Details:

The February 2024 security update 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:
The Copilot in Windows icon will appear on the right side of the system tray on the taskbar. Also, the display of Show desktop at the rightmost corner of the taskbar will be off by default. To turn it back on, go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar. You can also right-click the taskbar and choose Taskbar settings. Windows 11 devices will get this new functionality at different times.
This security update includes improvements that were a part of update KB5034204 (released January 23, 2024).
This update addresses an issue that affects Narrator announcements. They are slow when you use Natural Voices.
This update addresses an issue that affects explorer.exe. It might stop responding. This occurs when you restart or shut down a PC that has a controller accessory attached to it.
This update addresses an issue that affects the download of device metadata. Downloads from the Windows Metadata and Internet Services (WMIS) over HTTPS are now more secure.

Short on time? Watch our Windows 11 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.


For instructions on how to install this update for your operating system, see the KB for your OS listed below:
Windows 11, version 23H2: KB5034765
Windows 11, version 22H2: KB5034765
Windows 11, version 21H2: KB5034766
Windows 10, version 22H2: KB5034763
Windows 10, version 21H2: KB5034763
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 and Windows Server 2019: KB5034768
Windows 10 LTSB 2016 and Windows Server 2016: KB5034767
Windows 10 LTSB 2015: KB5034774
Windows Server 2022: KB5034770
Windows Server 2012 R2: Monthly Rollup: KB5034819
Windows Server 2012: Monthly Rollup: KB5034830
Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1: Monthly Rollup: KB5034831 / Security Only: KB5034809

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2024-02-14

updated:
2024-02-14

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 availability and performance may be affected during the update process.
- Changes in user interface (e.g., Copilot icon and taskbar settings)
- Roles impacted: End Users, Help Desk Support
- Dependencies: User training and documentation may need updates to reflect new features and settings.
- Security enhancements affecting device metadata downloads
- Roles impacted: IT Security Team, Compliance Officers
- Dependencies: Integration with existing security protocols and systems may require additional testing.

- Direct Impact on IT Services
- Compatibility issues with existing applications due to the update
- Roles impacted: Application Owners, IT Support Staff
- Dependencies: Legacy applications may need to be tested for compatibility with the new update.
- Changes in Narrator functionality may affect accessibility services
- Roles impacted: Accessibility Coordinators, End Users with disabilities
- Dependencies: Training and support materials may need to be revised to accommodate changes in accessibility features.
- Update process may require additional resources for monitoring and support
- Roles impacted: IT Operations Team, Help Desk Staff
- Dependencies: Increased ticket volume may strain support resources during and after the update.

- Direct Impact on IT Users
- User experience changes due to the new Copilot feature and taskbar settings
- Roles impacted: All End Users
- Dependencies: User adaptation to new features may require additional training sessions.
- Potential for increased user-reported issues during the initial rollout
- Roles impacted: Help Desk Support, IT Administrators
- Dependencies: User feedback mechanisms may need to be enhanced to capture issues effectively.
- Security improvements may lead to changes in user authentication processes
- Roles impacted: End Users, IT Security Team
- Dependencies: User training on new security protocols may be necessary to ensure compliance.

References:
- Microsoft Windows Update History: https://aka.ms/Windows/MonthlyUpdates
- Microsoft Support for Windows Updates: https://support.microsoft.com/help/5034204
- Accessibility Features in Windows: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/accessibility-in-windows-11-7e3c3b5b-7a3a-4c3f-8c5b-1a0c1e5e9c5e

Opportunities**

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Potentional Risks**

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