Windows 11 Update Naming Simplified: IT Admins Are Frustrated by the Removal of YYYY-MM Format

In October 2025, Microsoft introduced an optional update that has sparked considerable debate among IT professionals and regular Windows users alike. The update marked a significant alteration in how Windows Update titles are formatted, notably removing the YYYY-MM format and the term “cumulative” from the labels. While the aim appears to be simplification, the outcome has left many feeling perplexed.

Update Type	New Update Title (Examples)
Security (monthly / out-of-band)	Security Update (KB5039000) (26100.4800)
Preview (non-security)	Preview Update (KB5063000) (26100.4825)
.NET Framework — Security	.NET Framework Security Update (KB5056500)
.NET Framework — Preview	.NET Framework Preview Update (KB5056505)
Driver	Logitech Driver Update (123.500.2.0)
AI Component	Phi Silica AI Component Update (KB5064700) (1.2600.100.0)

Historically, Windows Updates employed lengthy titles featuring the term cumulative and the YYYY-MM format to convey vital information about the updates. For instance, the title of last month’s update was “2025-10 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 Version 25H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5066835) (26200.6899).” Despite the title’s length, it effectively communicated the relevant details to users.

Old Windows Update titles with YYYY-MM — **Old Windows Update titles included Cumulative Update, YYYY-MM, OS version, and architecture**

Previously, optional updates followed similar naming conventions. An example from September was titled “2025-09 Cumulative Update Preview for Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5065789) (26100.6725).” This format clearly differentiated cumulative updates from beta releases.

Changes in Windows Update Titles by Microsoft

The shift to simplified titles has led to the dropping of both the YYYY-MM format and operating system version numbers. The rebranded optional updates now simply read as “Preview Update (KB5062660) (26100.4770).” This brings up major concerns, particularly for IT administrators who rely on precise information to manage systems effectively.

New Windows Update title — **The new Windows Update title adopts a simpler format, omitting critical details**

The simplicity may appeal to some, but it leaves critical identifiers like the month, year, and update classification absent. As a result, ordinary users might misinterpret “Preview Update” as implying something akin to a beta version, without any indication of whether it’s related to security or quality improvements.

Windows Insider Update title — **Windows Insider Preview Updates feature a different yet similar control scheme**

The above screenshot demonstrates the titles used for updates in the Windows Insider Program, which clearly state as “Windows 11 Insider Preview Feature Update (26220.7051).” This contrast has introduced potential confusion among users, blurring the lines between optional cumulative updates and Insider Preview updates.

A Backlash from IT Administrators

Garnering pushback, IT administrators have labeled Microsoft’s new naming scheme as one of their “dumbest” moves yet. As a system administrator, I empathize with their frustrations. The absence of indicative details in the updates complicates troubleshooting scenarios.

“How are admins supposed to troubleshoot Windows when you hide crucial information from them? This is a truly terrible change, ” stated one frustrated IT admin.

Further criticism echoed the sentiment that such changes make it increasingly challenging for admins to determine if devices are up-to-date on patches and updates.

Microsoft’s Response to Feedback

Despite the backlash, it seems Microsoft plans to retain this new naming scheme. Nonetheless, they assure users that they are actively listening to feedback and intend to make future enhancements. Microsoft has also indicated that most update titles will not be altered when using Microsoft Update Catalog or Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), preserving some consistency for these platforms. Feature updates for Windows 11 will maintain the original naming conventions for now.

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