Microsoft has changed the naming conventions for Windows 10. Current Branch (CB) and Current Branch for Business (CBB) have been replaced with the Semi-Annual Channel. Microsoft will release feature updates twice a year around March and September. Each release will be serviced for 18 months from the date of release. The Semi-Annual Channel will be the approved version of Windows in the environment moving forward.
The Long-Term Servicing Channel has replaced the Long-Term Servicing Branch (LTSB) and will be updated approximately every 2-3 years. This version will only be supported for specific cases within USGS and DOI.
When a new version of Windows is released, several steps have to be completed before it is approved in the environment:
Review and inclusion of the new 1703 Administrative Template into the environment to support new Configuration Settings
Review and approval of provisioned applications
Testing and validation against all Enterprise and Bureau level applications
Creation of new Configuration Settings (STIG) to support the new operating system
Validation of an update process related to our McAfee encryption tools
Please do not update systems to 1703 until this product has been validated.
Additional information regarding Microsoft’s Windows 10 Feature upgrade cycle can be found at https://tst.usgs.gov/operating-systems-2/windows-10/. Please read through TST Windows 10 documentation and known issues before proceeding.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
Do not go to Windows Update on Windows 10 computers. This will cause 1703 to install with no option to bypass. Adjustments to prevent this installation are being investigated. Do not install 1703 until informed through a future memo that it is approved for use.
Information about Microsoft Windows 10 can be found at https://tst.usgs.gov/operating-systems-2/windows-10/
