Application Updates for Enterprise Managed Windows Endpoints

Introduction

Beginning 4/14/2026, managed Windows endpoints will begin receiving updates for several commonly used applications through Software Center. Supported applications include:

  • Google Chrome
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • Zoom
  • Slack
  • 7-Zip
  • Additional applications may be added as new security vulnerabilities need to be addressed.

This process works alongside built‑in auto‑updaters and ensures updates occur even if an application is not actively used.

How these Application Updates Will Be Published in Software Center

The Update Process [Two-Week Cycle]:

  1. Application updates will become available in Software Center every other Tuesday after 10:00AM
  2. After this occurs, users will be able to install these updates manually up until the installation deadline is reached.
  3. At the installation deadline, a week later on Wednesday, the update will automatically be installed.

Here is what the update will look like in Software Center:Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)

When you click an entry here, you will see additional information about the update as well as the option to Install or Schedule the update. Clicking Install will immediately install the update while schedule allows you to choose when to perform the installation, now or outside business hours. 

Note: If you choose to click install, there may be a delay in the status changes. If you leave the Software Center window open the status will automatically change from "preparing to download" -> "waiting to install" -> "installing" -> "installed".

What else do I need to know?

General Information

  • Application updates should not require a restart of your computer.
  • The updates run in the background without interrupting work.
  • If the computer is off during the install deadline, updates install at next login.

Observations regarding Zoom updates

  • You may be prompted to close the Zoom application (from the system tray) before it can be updated.
  • Updates will not force-close Zoom during a meeting.
  • If Zoom is open at the install deadline, the update may error and retry later.

Answers to Common Questions

Q: What happens if an application already updated prior to the mentioned update cycle?
A: No updates for the application will be shown in Software Center under the Updates tab

Q: What happens if the application was auto-updated during the update cycle?
A: Software Center will not attempt to reinstall it and possibly provide an error. The entry will disappear after the next inventory check (typically within 12-24 hrs).

Conclusion

Keeping on top of your application updates helps the University stay secure and reduces vulnerabilities. If you believe your system is not receiving regular updates, contact your IT support team for assistance.

Feel free to leave feedback below on how we can improve our articles or to request information be added that we may have missed. 

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