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Jimi

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Managing Azure Arc-Enabled Windows Server Updates by Using Azure Update Manager

Introduction

In our previous guide, we used Insights to monitor our Azure Arc-enabled servers. Building upon that foundation, this post will delve into how to effectively manage updates for these servers using Azure Update Manager.

Prerequisites:

  • An Azure account with an active subscription.
  • A Windows VM enabled with Azure Arc.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Access Azure Update Manager:

    • Log in to your Windows server and then sign into your Azure account.
    • Search for "Azure Update Manager" in the Azure portal and select it. Locating Azure Update Manager
  2. Discover Your Machine:

    • Under the "Manage" section, choose "Machines."

    Locating Machines in Arc

    • Select your Azure Arc-enabled instance from the list.

    Locating the Arc enabled machine

  3. Initiate Initial Assessment:

    • Click "Check for Updates" followed by "Trigger assess now."

    Updating the machine

    • Important: Do not wait for the assessment to complete. Proceed to the next step.
  4. Configure Periodic Assessment:

    • Navigate to "Update Settings."

    Checking Update Settings

    • Enable "Periodic assessment" and save the changes.

    Enabling periodic updates

  5. Schedule Updates:

    • Go to the "Updates" page and click "Schedule Updates."

    Locating Scheduled Updates

    • Select your subscription, resource group, and create a configuration name.

    Configuring the Scheduled Updates

    • Add a schedule specifying the start date, time, maintenance window, and recurrence.

    Configuring recurring updates

    • Review and create the update schedule. Saving the update schedule
  6. Perform a One-Time Update:

    • Return to the "Updates" page of your Azure Arc VM and select "One-Time Update."

    COnfiguring a one time update

    • Check the box next to your instance and click "Next."

    Initiating an update

  • In the "Properties" tab, configure reboot options as needed (e.g., "Never Reboot").
  • Click "Next" and then "Install."

    Installing the update

Key Capabilities of Azure Update Manager

Azure Update Manager offers several features to streamline update management:

  • Centralized Management: Manage updates for multiple Azure Arc-enabled servers from a single console.
  • Scheduled Updates: Automate update deployment during off-peak hours or maintenance windows.
  • Assessment and Compliance: Evaluate update status and compliance with organizational policies.

Conclusion:
By following these steps, you've successfully configured Azure Update Manager to manage updates for your Azure Arc-enabled Windows servers.

Next Steps:
In the next post, we'll explore configuring Azure Arc-enabled Windows servers using Azure VM Extensions.

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