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.

2. Discover Your Machine:

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

   

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

   

3. Initiate Initial Assessment:

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

   

   • Important: Do not wait for the assessment to complete. Proceed to the next step.

4. Configure Periodic Assessment:

   • Navigate to "Update Settings."

   

   • Enable "Periodic assessment" and save the changes.

   

5. Schedule Updates:

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

   

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

   

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

   

   • Review and create the update schedule.

6. Perform a One-Time Update:

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

   

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

   

• In the "Properties" tab, configure reboot options as needed (e.g., "Never Reboot").

• Click "Next" and then "Install."

  

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.